It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

I love the spirit of the holidays. Being in the Spa during this time is always so special to me. It’s wonderful to share in the excitement with so many of you that I get to see as you shop for gifts and perfect your radiant holiday glow.

As we prepare to celebrate the joy of the season with family and friends, it ‘s helpful to note that in traditional Chinese medicine, December is the month we transition into the winter element of water. Water is associated with wisdom, introspection, and reflection.  It encourages us to be flexible, to slow down, soften and go with the flow. When water is out of balance, we become overwhelmed, chaotic and can have trouble in social situations.

So as busy as we are during the holidays, it’s wise to remember to take time for your self this month. Seasonal self-care is so important for overall wellbeing. Maintain a mindful balance by relaxing and enjoying some quiet time away from all the festivities.

This time of year, there is also a great opportunity to reflect on what you intend for 2023. What do you want to put into the world in the New Year?

A simple exercise that I find helpful to identify the answer to that question is to ask: As I look back and reflect on this past year, what is the one thing that I changed or recognized differently about my life? And if I could choose one word to represent what I want to move forward with in my life, what would it be?

Putting that word around so you can see it on a regular basis helps to keep it top of mind. I write mine on a card and keep it by my coffee maker.  Other places to consider are the dashboard of your car, your phone screen, wherever you make your morning tea, or painting it on a river rock to keep on your desk.

We all have a full list of things to do this month, but I wanted to give you some simple reminders to help support your wellbeing.

Be realistic – Keep your expectations of yourself and others in check.

Don’t over do it – Too much sugar and alcohol is not a good recipe to feel your best.

Keep it simple – Less is usually more.

Keep up with your self-care routine – This will keep you feeling balanced.

I’m so grateful to each of you for all the support you have shown to Five Wellbeing this year and on behalf of all of us, I’m sending warmest holiday wishes to you and your family.

In Wellbeing,

Betsy