Embrace Simplicity This Christmas

By Lisa Payne

There are so many podcasts and books talking about how simplicity and minimalism can improve our mental and physical health. And the topic of mental health is everywhere! I like the holistic approach of simplicity, though it’s a big process that can’t be done overnight. It takes shedding parts of your lifestyle including your space and routine to create peace, stability, and natural joy. I will talk much more about this in my January article.

But how do we find freedom from all the “stuff” during the holidays? We have been trained to buy the perfect gift for everyone in our life, as well as create the perfect memorable experience. We focus on the material aspects of the holidays and ignore how we feel, which is usually overwhelmed and dissatisfied. To be honest I can feel a tightness in my shoulders as I write this because it’s hard to not get caught up in all the spending during a time when even groceries are so expensive.

Maybe we try to be more intentional with our gifting this holiday, and much more aware of how we are feeling. Here are a few questions to consider asking yourself before you pull out your credit card.

Who is on your list and why? If you have a large extended family you usually buy for, could you all exchange names and buy just one gift? Maybe you have always bought a gift for a friend but this year it would be fun to try a new hike or a new restaurant together instead. The gift of time and experience is always more memorable than a material item. Gifting food is a beautiful way to show you care (see my holiday treat recipes towards the back of this magazine).

Will this gift be used? When we buy gifts while in a hurry, we purchase things that end up as clutter to others. And simplicity is the theme here. By applying a minimalistic approach means to give fewer, more meaningful gifts or experiences that will last long after the season is over. Consider repurposing something that you no longer have a use for, or make them a photo book of your fun memories over the past year. Even better, schedule a time to volunteer together at the local food bank or homeless shelter!

Are you prioritizing expectations instead of relationships? Don’t stay up all night trying to make that extra batch of cookies when you know deep down your kids will be happy with the eight varieties you already made. They want happy, calm, and rested parents. Not parents who are too busy to spend time with them because they are trying to make everything perfect. Let a lot of your expectations float up the chimney and instead cuddle with your loves and be present with your attention.

Take a step back this holiday and see how you can apply simplicity and minimalism into your routine and traditions. Ask your kids to help brainstorm. I am a big believer in experience over material, and I promise you will appreciate the memories from experience long after the holidays are over. Wishing you a peaceful December and exceptionally low credit card statements. Happy happy holidays!

Lisa Payne writes about family, food, and home. You can reach her at paynefamily6@gmail.com.