We all know that the holidays can be a fruitful time filled with love, family and travel, but I also find that it's important to prioritize time for myself to stay grounded, centered and present. Â So to honor the 12 days leading up to the holidays, I though it would be fun to inspire you to acquire new wellness tips for your self-care routines, and to remind you to make time for a meditation session, or ignite the motivation to priories movement or exercise so you can stay balanced and centered throughout the season.
Day 1: Mindful Morning Meditation
Start your day with a guided mindfulness meditation session to set positive intentions and cultivate a sense of calm and focus for the day ahead.  This transformative practice can help to shape the rest of your day promoting mental well-being and enhancing your overall productivity.  If you have never meditated before, or if you are looking for some added inspiration for your regular sessions, here are some simple guided meditation steps for you to follow as you sit in the stillness of this mindful practice:
Set the scene:Â Find a comfortable, peaceful environment free from distractions.
Prepare: Sit comfortably & close your eyes.
Focus on the Breath: Observe the sensation of each breath bringing awareness to the present moment.
Setting Intentions: Set a positive intention for the day that helps you to visualize your goals or aspirations fostering a sense of purpose.
Body Scan: Release any tension that you might be holding onto within your body and encourage deep relaxation to pain points.
Gratitude Practice: Expressing gratitude can contribute to a more positive outlook on life, encouraging you to reflect on the uplifting aspects of your life.
Closing: Gradually bring awareness back to the external world, to the present moment.
Day 2: Gratitude Journaling
On this beautiful day, take a moment to reflect on the things you are grateful for and start a gratitude journal. Write down three things you are thankful for today and continue to do so throughout the holiday season.
Day 3: Energizing Yoga Flow
Movement and yoga or any physical activity has been shown to enhance cognitive function, reduce stress, and improve overall mood - so why pass up on that for the holidays! Â Perhaps you could join a virtual yoga class, follow a video series on YouTube for an energizing flow that helps you stretch and rejuvenate your body, that will leave you feeling refreshed. Â Here are some of my favorite movement accounts:
https://www.youtube.com/@yogawithadriene
https://www.youtube.com/@MadFit
https://www.youtube.com/@BreatheAndFlow
Day 4: Healthy Holiday Recipe
Discover a nourishing and delicious holiday recipe that incorporates wholesome ingredients. Share your favorite healthy dish with friends and family to spread the goodness. Â Here's a delicious pot pie we made for you to give a try as a plant based alternative to a main meal dish:Â https://www.moonflowerchild.com/blogs/news/cozy-fall-veggie-pot-pie
Day 5: Digital Detox Challenge
With our daily average time on our phones or in front of a screen going up and up its important to take a break from screens for a few hours today. Engage in activities like reading a book, going for a walk in nature, or spending quality time with loved ones. Â
Day 6: Breathing Exercise for Relaxation
Learn a simple breathing exercise that helps reduce stress and promotes relaxation. Practice it whenever you need a moment of tranquility during the bustling holiday season. Â Here are a few breath work techniques:
Diaphragmatic Breathing (3-5 minutes):
- Place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen.
- Inhale slowly through your nose, allowing your abdomen to expand.
- Exhale slowly through your mouth, feeling your abdomen contract.
- Focus on deep, rhythmic breaths, keeping your chest relatively still.
Box Breathing (4-4-4-4 rhythm, 3-5 minutes):
- Inhale for a count of four.
- Hold your breath for a count of four.
- Exhale for a count of four.
- Hold your breath for a count of four.
- Repeat this box breathing pattern.
Alternate Nostril Breathing (Nadi Shodhana, 3-5 minutes):
- Use your right thumb to close off your right nostril.
- Inhale through your left nostril.
- Close your left nostril with your ring finger, release your right nostril, and exhale.
- Inhale through your right nostril.
- Close your right nostril, release your left nostril, and exhale.
- Repeat this alternate nostril breathing.
Mindful Breathing (2-3 minutes):
- Return to natural, relaxed breathing.
- Focus your attention on the sensation of your breath— the coolness as you inhale and the warmth as you exhale.
- If your mind wanders, gently bring your focus back to your breath.
Day 7: Mindful Eating Practice
During this season of over indulgence in meals and sweet treats, I always love to prioritize my intuitive eating - engaging in mindful eating by savoring each bite of your meal without distractions. I am consistently reminding myself to pay attention to the taste, texture, and aroma of the food, fostering a deeper connection with your nourishment. Â
 ÂDay 8: DIY Spa Day
Create your own spa experience at home with a DIY facial mask, a relaxing bath with essential oils, and soothing background music. Treat yourself to a day of self-pampering. Â
Many of you know that I am big on self-care, self-worth & love for my body...it really helps with my mindset and encourages me to show up each day as my highest form of self. Â So with that in mind - I have mentioned the Chestnut Collective many times and it's been a slow evolution to where I am now with the release of this new project. Â I am FINALLYÂ going to be sharing the Herbal Perfume Workshop online in a whole new light to encourage your self-worth through the power of scent. Â
If you are interested in a free eBook resource I have created for you called "Scented Symphony" with some of the OG Moon.Flower.Child recipes & resources for winter inspiration for your at home Spa Day then be sure to sign up for the release and updates on the Chestnut Collective website that is fully in motion and due to go live for the Spring Equinox. Â
Day 9: Digital Wellness
Check-In Evaluate your screen time habits and set boundaries for healthy device usage. Consider using apps that track your screen time and help you establish a healthy balance, or use Apps that are fulfilling more of your wellness habits like: Â https://insighttimer.com/
Day 10: Mindfulness in Motion
Engage in a mindful movement activity like tai chi, qigong, or a walking meditation to connect with your body and surroundings in a peaceful way. Â Even though it can be cold during these winter months getting outside is a great habit to incorporate into our daily routines. Â
Day 11: Journaling for Reflection
Take time to reflect on the year that has passed and set intentions for the upcoming year. Write down your achievements, challenges, and aspirations to manifest a positive future.
Day 12: Loving-Kindness Meditation
End the wellness advent calendar with a loving-kindness meditation, spreading love and compassion to yourself and all beings around you. Embrace the spirit of giving and kindness throughout the holiday season and beyond. Â Perhaps this would come in the form of a solo meditation, or with your partner to deepen your bonds & prioritize the time you make for each other to share compassion for the love you share for each other.
IÂ hope this Wellness Advent Calendar brings you moments of tranquility, mindfulness, and self-care during the holiday season. May these daily practices inspire you to help you stay centered, balanced, and connected to your inner well-being as you embrace the joys of this festive time. Wishing you a season of wellness, love, and peace!
