As the autumn leaves fall, nature reflects that it’s a time to slow down, go inward and replenish our energy after long fruitful summer days. Seasons offers guidance whether its expansion or contraction, but when does our daily life actually allow alignment with the rhythms of nature?

Even when we find the time to slow down and enjoy snuggling by a crackling fire, our senses are being lured to the bustling Festive Season. Already retailers are touting Christmas wares, highlighting the latest decoration trends and the hottest gifts to have this year, enticing you forward to create the “perfect Christmas day”.

It’s hard to be immune to what Christmas depicts - joyful festivities and spending time with our loved ones, bringing feelings of warmth, magic and gratitude - but, it can also feel overwhelming, pressurised and exhausting.

I always admire people who are organised early with presents wrapped, turkey ordered - every year I think I’m going to be more like them, not because I lack the organisation skills, but to relieve any self imposed pressure to have all of those boxes ticked way before the 25th of December arrives!

I am sure I’m not alone feeling pressure and mild panic of trying to get everything done before the “big day”, along side of having the right outfits for the exploding social calendar that seems to echo the once a year, “must meet up before Christmas” outings.

Whether it’s a Christmas gathering with our best friends or work colleagues, attending is often obligatory even though we would rather go home for a hot bath and early night. Don’t get me wrong, there’s plenty of occasions that a good night has been had by all, but there is a toll to pay when we override our need to fill our own cup first.

The hanging of tinsel and sparkling fairy lights often depicts a time to wind down, but for many of us we experience the opposite. This time of year can bring higher demands and added emotional strain with expectations of joyous highs but the reality can be more lows with pressure on our resources whether time, finances or energy.

When we are told, “Christmas is the season to give”, and it’s our daily role to give to others, it can be hard to switch off. As caregivers, the selflessness can be an ingrained habit without a thought to put ourselves first, often forgetting we also have needs to be met.

There is a need to shift that mindset and believe we have a right to do both - to give to others and also receive. To know that we are entitled to rest and say no without guilt or fear. To embrace creating space to enjoy the magic of Christmas along side of serving others - it isn’t selfish, it is maintaining our ability to continue to give long after the Christmas ornaments are packed away.

When we learn to serve ourselves also, fill our cups to overflowing, and give ourselves permission to pause and rest, it offers us a moment of reflection - YOU are the gift this Christmas. There is only one of you, you are special and unique, and without your generous heart, there would be a lot less magic in the world, not just at Christmas.

So pause for that deep breath of cool autumnal air, savour the taste of a warm mulled wine and enjoy the cosyness of another log on the fire - by recognising the wisdom in gifting yourself the time to slow down, to do something that truly nourishes your Soul - you strengthen your ability to give to the world.

May this Christmas bring you the gift of remembrance that you are worthy to receive the kindness, care and compassion that you freely give to others and it starts with deciding to give to you.

Festive Blessings,

Ishala Wayshower