Slow burn for Christmas

Over the last few Christmases I’ve been increasingly conscious of taking a slow burn approach, rather than burning out.

By not overloading the calendar with events and generally slowing the pace, it’s getting easier to find the balance between enjoying the excitement and action of the season, and avoiding the overwhelm.

Zooming around in a busy shopping centre, market or an event can be fun - until it isn’t. If the stimulation becomes agitating, our heartbeats rise along with the mania.

From there it’s easy to feel irritable with others, maybe victimised by someone plying us with consumables or chatter, or resentful at feeling obliged to cater to real or perceived demands to spend more money or energy that we can easily afford.

Awareness to slow

A simple awareness of our state of being can be enough to reign in a rising imbalance, followed up with a few breaths to take us back into centre.

It’s an act of self-love that also helps others as we can be more present for grounded and authentic exchanges (including making a graceful exit if suitable).

Sometimes I create a bubble of protective white light around me when in a hectic environment, by breathing into the heart and expanding the feeling with intention. It helps me stay connected to peace and goodwill and feel more immune to fraught energy.

By taking a conscious and moderate approach to caring for our physical, emotional, material and spiritual needs, the true spirit of Christmas – like appreciating the people and experiences that bring joy – is all around.

There are so many goodies to love...sensual delights like the aromas and tastes of Christmas treats, hugs
and connections with those we care for, time in nature, music, following our passions and hobbies, and extra pats with our animal loves.

Core of the flame

As ever, taking time to light a candle with the intention to connect with our inner presence is a beautiful and easy way to nurture ourselves.

We can gaze at the flame as it flickers in graceful response to external conditions while keeping its centre steady. A slow burn to inspire!

I want to wish you a very merry Christmas, and thank you so much for sharing part of the existence of Esencias.

Here’s to keeping things authentic and slow this Christmas, and as always, tending the inner flame of our true essence.

Dominique xo