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When we choose to develop a consistent practice in any area of our life, it’s no guarantee that we’ll get better at it.
In fact, ask most artist or author and they will say that, while they do have a daily practice in writing, painting, drawing, etc, that’s not why they’re doing it.
When we consistently sit down and do the work, as is the catch phrase these days, it’s inevitable that we will stumble across a few gems along the way. More importantly, we get into a flow that goes beyond mastery and moves into the enjoyable.
Call it a practice, a habit, or a routine. They are all quite similar. The difference is that a practice goes beyond the function of living, and asks us to commit to something we find fulfilling outside of our daily maintenance.
This can be as simple as sitting in silence for 20 minutes each morning, taking a daily walk at sunset, or sitting down with a pen and paper.
In particular, it’s in times of turmoil, when life feels out of control, that the simple act of committing to a practice has a grounding effect.
The strangest December of my life arrives tomorrow, and perhaps you too are eager to find a grounding (and joyful) practice as this strange holiday season begins.
Sometimes all we need is a little nudge to point us in the right direction – a way to keep us somewhat accountable to ourselves.
Maybe it’s an advent calendar, a count down to the New Year, or a simple self-made daily December practice. Regardless, if you’re feeling flustered, overwhelmed, or even let down by this years holiday season, I urge you to consider finding a grounding daily practice. It’s sure to carry you through this difficult time with more grace, ease and joy.
When we engage in a practice it doesn’t have to be an attempt to get better at anything. It doesn’t need to mean picking up a new hobby or task. It can exist for the simple purpose of grounding us in something we find value in.
So if you’re eager to build in some self-care this holiday season, but you’ve got no clue where to begin, here are a few offerings of different December-specific practices and advent calendars. May they help you find a joyful anchor through this strange holiday season.
Be well everyone,
Anon
Kasia Avery Junk Journaling Advent Calendar: This is not a advent calendar for just the artist. It’s for anyone who finds grounding in playing with mixed media art supplies and would enjoy a bit of prompting (and art supplies suggestions) from a professional mixed media artist. I participated in it last year, and intend to do my best at keeping up with it this year as well.
Tea Advent Calendar: I’m excited to have one of these cued up for myself this year! The link is only one example of such an advent calendar, but there are many on the market. Beyond the tangible ‘gift’ of a new tea each day, it’s also an opportunity to savor a moment of calm with a cuppa in your hands. Get one for a friend, and regardless of where in the world they are, you can connect through the daily practice of brewing and appreciating a cup of tea. (search “tea advent calendar” on Google for a wide variety of options)
A few other advent calendars I found, but have not participated in personally are below. Search the web for any number of creative ideas for ticking down the month – be it for the atheist, the charitable, or the fly fisherman or woman.
There’s truly something out there for everyone!
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