3 Ways to Cultivate Peace of Mind
by Michelle Beadle Holder, PhD
During this busy holiday season and other seasons of life, I wish you inner peace.
The holiday season is often filled with joy, laughter, and celebration. However, it can also bring a sense of overwhelm. From family dynamics to busy schedules, and the pressure of perfect meals and gatherings, it's easy to feel disconnected from peace.
A Peaceful Inspiration
I was inspired to write about peace because of a small town in Italy.
During the fall of 2024, I traveled to Roseto Valfortore, Italy, as part of a writing, travel, and cooking trip.
On the trip, our writing coach, Donna Knutson encouraged us to write something for the town’s magazine. I wrote a poem about peace.
Our chef from Dorina's Kitchen welcomed us, fed us, and taught us about the town's history. With my belly and taste buds satisfied, I opened myself up to receive something more. Something fed my soul. In Roseto I found peace.
Three Ways to Cultivate Peace of Mind
Below are three tips to foster a sense of calm and joy as you navigate Thanksgiving and the holiday season:
1. Create Space for Silence
Try to carve out moments of silence amidst the bustling holiday festivities. This can be a quiet walk after a meal, a few minutes alone with a cup of tea, or simply taking a moment to close your eyes and breathe.
Silence can help your nervous system to rest and reset. It can promote a deeper sense of inner peace. Pockets of stillness can also recharge your mental and emotional energy, so you’re better able to enjoy the holiday season without feeling overwhelmed.
2. Set Boundaries with Food and Social Expectations
The holiday season can come with unspoken expectations, whether it's about how much you "should" eat or how much socializing you "should" do. It is important to set boundaries that prioritize your well-being.
If you're offered a second helping but don't feel hungry, it’s perfectly fine to politely decline. Similarly, if you're feeling drained by social obligations, it’s okay to take a break and retreat to a quiet space for self-care.
If a certain holiday tradition feels draining, gently communicate your need to take a step back or modify it. It’s important to protect your energy and peace of mind.
3. Embrace Imperfection
The pursuit of perfection—whether it’s the perfect meal, the perfect family gathering, or the perfect holiday moment—can create unnecessary stress. Instead of striving for an idealized version of the holiday season, allow yourself to embrace the beauty of imperfection.
Trust that the moments of connection, the laughter, and the shared meals are what truly matter. Let go of any pressure to make everything flawless, and allow yourself to fully experience the season as it is.
This holiday season and the months after, make inner peace a priority.
What’s one small action you can take today to cultivate calm and peace of mind?