As December unfolds, it indicates not just the start of the holiday season but also an opportunity to take a moment to slow down, reflect, and prepare for a new chapter. Amidst the festive activities, this month invites us to nurture our mental and emotional well-being, embracing reflection, resilience, and renewal. What will you be taking with you as you embark on this new chapter?
Reflection: Take out moments despite the end-of-year rush to reflect on your life journey. Consider keeping a gratitude journal, listing down achievements, challenges, and lessons learned. Take a walk down memory lane and acknowledge personal growth, no matter how small. Reflecting on experiences offers clarity, empowering us to navigate the future with newfound knowledge. Create a “Reflection Hour” weekly by dedicating time to introspection, reviewing the past year’s highs, lows, and lessons learned. Set aside distractions and allow your thoughts and emotions to flow freely.
Resilience: December brings its blend of joy and stress. Amidst the festive preparations, prioritise self-care. Engage in activities that support you in replenishing your energy—meditation, a warm bath, or reading a favourite book. Remember, resilience isn’t about avoiding stress but building coping mechanisms to manage it better. Treat yourself kindly, acknowledging the need for rest in between the season’s hustle.
Connection: While December promotes togetherness, it can also amplify feelings of loneliness. Reach out to loved ones or join community activities. Schedule gatherings or heartfelt conversations. Simple acts of connection can offer solace and support during this time. Engaging with others can foster a sense of belonging and connection.
Gratitude: Embrace the spirit of gratitude. In the holiday rush, pause to appreciate simple moments, cherished relationships, and personal growth. Practising gratitude can shift our focus from scarcity to abundance, fostering positivity. Start a gratitude jar, write down moments of gratitude on small notes and drop them into the jar. Review them at the end of the month for a reminder of the blessings in your life.
Setting Intentions: Instead of traditional resolutions, consider setting intentions. Reflect on how you wish to feel and the values guiding your actions in the upcoming year. Intentions offer flexibility, focusing on personal growth rather than rigid goals. Set aside time to envision your ideal year ahead. Create a vision board or journal to visually represent your intentions and aspirations for the coming year.
Embracing Change: As the year draws to a close, embrace change as a catalyst for personal growth. It might involve shifting perspectives, letting go of what no longer serves you, or welcoming new opportunities with open arms. Engage in a decluttering session by clearing physical spaces to symbolise openness to change and new beginnings.
Marlene Agius is a Trauma-Informed Coach and Gestalt Psychotherapist. She supports adults in navigating their life challenges through a therapeutic journey of heightened awareness, compassion and self-acceptance. She has experience working in the mental health field, particularly with issues of anxiety, depression, loss, challenging relationships, trauma and major life transitions.
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