The buildup to holidays generally involves many things. An increasing number of social engagements, school-related events, and of course, Christmas-laden decor everywhere you go, usually starting in early October.
The general trend in our culture is one of always wanting more. With the ever-increasing options, and the highly targeted ads that show up on our feeds, seemingly bringing us just what we didn’t know we needed, it can be a challenge to stay grounded.
To buy into this mentality leads to an unrelenting cycle of stress.
We do, however, have a choice of how much we engage with this collective wave of always wanting more. We can choose to shift our focus from never enough to recognizing the gifts of what truly has meaning and significance in our lives.
In the moment. Notice when you’re getting caught up in the treadmill of thinking that buying one more thing will somehow make you feel better, or that it’s the path to happiness. Instead, bring yourself more fully into the present moment. Bring your awareness to who you are with, and where you are. Notice the shift in your body as you move from a feeling of scarcity to a feeling of fullness in the moment.
Plan ahead. Create opportunities in your schedule to connect with your kids and help them connect with the natural world, rather than the trappings of being in a store. Gather greens and make a wreath or a simple table arrangement, collect driftwood and design a sculpture, or play with words as you attempt to describe what you see, hear, touch, and smell. Take turns choosing where you will go and what you will do. Your kids will cherish this time where they get your full attention.
Maui offers an endless array of opportunities to immerse yourself in nature. Whether you head to the forest for a hike, the beach for a swim, or a stream, field, or park, there is a place near you where you can take yourself and your family and soak in your senses. Play a game and listen for how many sounds you can hear, how many colors and textures you can see, and the myriad of smells that waft your way.
As you begin to shift to appreciating the bounty available through the people you cherish and the natural world, you will begin to notice that the gift of the present moment is the most meaningful one of all.
Kalia Kelmenson helps women remember their spark and strength and reclaim adventure as a way of life. You can find her at https://mauimindandbody.com/ and follow at https://www.instagram.com/thesaltinus/
