How can I find blessings and comfort in a holiday season that does not feel aligned with my beliefs and emotions? I have been pondering this more than ever this year….How many of us are feeling disenchanted by this “most magical time of the year”? How can we move from disillusion and even overwhelm toward bliss? Are we collectively searching for a new perspective, possibly even new traditions? What tools can assist us right now and going forward?

I grew up in a religious household that did not celebrate holidays. So as a teenager and young adult I enthusiastically embraced the holiday spirit when I had the option, and took pleasure in the traditions and gift giving experience. I cherished this rite! It was a time of joy and happiness in my life for many years.

Fast forward to today. After a few years of contemplation, massive transformation and a conscious awakening, this time of year my soul feels empty at times. I count down the days leading up, only to look forward to the culmination and relief to come once it is over. Sadly, I notice everyday encounters during this season are often filled with tension and a sense that many are walking and driving around on the verge of collapse under the pressure that this holiday places on our society.

As an empath, this energy falls heavy in the air around me and I sense it. Dare I say own it even? I perpetuate this web of discontent from my own personal frustrations mixed with the dissatisfaction of those around me.How do I shift to compassion, joy and fulfillment in all of this?

• Tool numero uno for this time and all times in my life that I fall into this uncomfortable frequency is clearing! If you aren’t familiar with the term or technique get to learning and practicing it! It is so healthy and beneficial in both ancient times as well as our modern day.

• Another beauteous tool for times like these is gratitude. How powerful this one is when I begin to slip into disappointment. Start an ongoing list in your phone or on paper. Add to it often. You will notice the shift! In this moment and those I will create, what am I thankful for?

• Another I like to use is the limitless gift of imagination. Get creative! How can I do things differently that feels right for me and my family or tribe? Envision and record your ideas in a journal or even in a voice memo. Maybe next year a gathering will consist of homemade gifts, recycled, or vintage thrift store items instead of over priced novelties.

• And lastly get in the spirit of service. What can I offer to my fellows?Maybe just a smile or a listening ear. Or maybe I can bless someone by sharing in my abundance? How can I be a part of community and choose not to isolate during the holidays? What a gift to give yourself and others!Can you feel that shift? If you are having an experience similar to disenchantment this season. Try these tools. It may just get a little bit lighter and brighter for us all!

Can you feel that shift friends? If you are having an experience similar to disenchantment this season, try these tools. It may just get a little bit lighter and brighter for us all!

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