Christmas Holiday Mindfulness
Christmas can be a lovely time, but it can also feel quite heavy for many of us. Lots of people together, busy days, changed routines and not much quiet space can all add up. When we spend long periods indoors, it’s very easy to feel overwhelmed, even when everything is meant to be enjoyable.
That’s why I am gently encouraging people to step outside over the Christmas holidays whenever they can. Even a short walk can help. A bit of fresh air, some open space and a slower pace can really calm the mind and lift your mood.
You don’t need to plan anything ambitious. A local park, a nearby woodland, a familiar footpath or even a gentle wander from your front door is more than enough. If you take your time and look around, there is always something waiting to be noticed.
Ian’s Eyespy List
Here are a few easy, comforting things to look out for while you’re out and about:
- Squirrels in the woods – often busy gathering or moving quietly through the trees.
- Ducks on the pond – pause for a moment and see how many different water birds you can spot.
- Robins in the bushes – never far away and always a pleasure to see.
- New discoveries in the woods – each walk brings something slightly different.
Winter is a lovely time to notice trees more closely.
- Beech trees have long, pointed leaf buds.
- Ash trees have neat, black leaf buds.
- Horse chestnuts have large, sticky buds, already preparing for spring.
Once you start looking, you’ll spot them everywhere. Did you know that?
Lift your eyes upwards too. Can you see a squirrel dray, their winter nest, tucked high up in the branches?
Let your eyes wander as you walk:
- Is there an interesting shaped tree that catches your attention?
- Can you spot ladybirds tucked away, sleeping through the winter?
- Or maybe you simply pause and take in a lovely view.
There is so much quiet beauty out there, even in the colder months.
So if things start to feel a bit much over the holidays, wrap up warm with your hat, gloves, coat and wellies and head outside. Walk gently, breathe deeply, and give yourself a little space. The outdoors has a wonderful way of helping us feel calmer, clearer and more settled.