In general, the winter holiday season is a time where our senses are bombarded and almost overwhelmed with messages distinct and unique to this time of year. This year, I invite you to take the time to notice how you experience these sensations and the crisp vitality of life. It may provide you with moments of peace and authenticity and help to ground you in enjoying the present.
Taste For most people, food is a major part of the holiday experience. Along with your traditional favorites though, try expanding your sensory reach by experimenting with new flavors. Perhaps it will be something simple like adding cardamom to your coffee or mixing a little wintergreen into your whipped cream to give your cocoa a chocolate mint kick. Or maybe you’ll try out some new ethnic cuisine. Have fun and experiment!
Smell Whether it is the fragrance of evergreens, the crispness of frosty air or the warm aroma of your favorite baked goods, winter is full of wonderful smells. Our sense of smell is a powerful trigger for memories so as you take in the scents of the season, notice the thoughts and emotions it evokes from you. Don’t forget to have lavender (soothing sleep), citrus scents (happiness), and mint (stress reliever) on hand to help you through these busy days!
Touch One reason to love winter is for all of the different textures that come with this season’s clothing. There’s the scratchiness of wool, the plush softness of fleece, the sleekness of trench coats and the fluffiness of down and faux fur. We don’t think we notice these things but every one of us has our “favorite” item of clothing as well as the outfit we dread wearing because it’s uncomfortable. What’s your favorite feel of winter?
See In my part of the U.S., the lighting of luminarias is a clear signal that this season has arrived. What visual cues impact you during winter? Is it holiday decorations and lights? How about seeing your breath in the cold air? Maybe it’s the welcoming message of wreaths on people’s doors. Be aware of the sights that put you in the holiday spirit and open your heart and mind to new possibilities.
Hear Aside from the ubiquitous holiday songs you hear in every department store, there are plenty of other sounds that signal winter. From caroling to the jingling of bells on sidewalks and from the crackling of a fire to the hush of newly fallen snow, this season offers an auditory feast. It could even be the voice of an old friend or relative you haven’t talked to in a while. Now, there’s an idea! This time of year is also an opportunity for your voice to be heard. Be sure to express your love, gratitude, and wishes as well as acknowledge what you will let go of at the end of the year so you can start out fresh!
