Berkeley, CA (PRWEB) December 02, 2016 -- The winter holidays can be a very stressful time. From Thanksgiving dinners to winter breaks, presents, and family get-togethers, it's easy for parents to find themselves too busy to actually enjoy the time they spend with their family. Michele Lilyanna, coauthor of the book AWAKENING JOY FOR KIDS has some mindfulness tips that can help parents to enjoy the present moment:
• Slow down before family meals. Really look at each other. Appreciate being there with each other in that moment. You may like to hold hands and share one thing that brought you joy in the day.
• Even if you have to set a timer, take five minutes each day to go outside and connect with nature.
• Write down one thing you are thankful for on a little piece of paper. Put the papers in a jar and have your family or extended family guess who shared the gratitude.
• Give yourself a moment of gratitude for all you do each day. Do something wonderful for yourself that makes you feel good. Actually put your hand on your heart and thank yourself as you would do a dear friend.
All of these activities may seem small but they make a huge difference in your mood. And, says Lilyanna, as parents we can also slow down and just be present to what is happening. “Be self-compassionate when you fall down. Cherish and celebrate yourself when you feel good.”
Earlita Chenault, 510-944-9032, [email protected]
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