by Mary Riposo, PhD

As we enter the month of December, our thoughts turn to giving. The holiday season can be a whirlwind of activity, as we fill our evenings and weekends with shopping, parties, and events. Our attempts to create meaningful experiences for our loved ones can not only drain our pocketbooks, but also sap our energy at this time of the year, resulting in depression, anxiety, and even physical illness that can linger into the new year.

When we chronically overextend ourselves, our energy fields lose their state of balance; in essence, we're giving out more energy than we're taking in. When our focus is on giving, we're less open to receive. I believe that the simple act of receiving can be the key to maintaining balance during the busy holiday season.

This month, I encourage you to make an intention to be open to receive. There is infinite energy available to us at all times, but we must be open to receive it in order to maintain balance in our lives.

One simple thing you can do is pause and check in with yourself. When you focus on giving, you place your attention outside of yourself; so pause, breathe, and take a moment to check in with yourself. Ask yourself what you need. Then give yourself whatever you need; and if you can't do it in that moment, do it as soon as you can.

Consider it a gift, whether it's a cup of tea, an afternoon nap, or a sweater. Then really open to receive that gift; feel the energy of the gift as you receive it; let it fill you up. Hint: if you do the same when someone else gives you a gift, no matter what it is, you'll be well on your way to restoring balance in your life.

Blessings,

Mary