Mindfulness Practice

The real meaning of Christmas has been drowned out by noise. Too many lists. Too many expectations. Too much pressure to make it special, magical, memorable. Somewhere along the way, Christmas stopped being a day and turned into a test. Of generosity. Of happiness. Of how well you’re holding it together. By the time it arrives, a lot of us are already tired. We’re told Christmas is about joy, but joy doesn’t switch on just because the calendar says so. Not when the year has been heavy. Not when there are empty chairs at the table. Not when family is complicated, money is tight, or grief is sitting quietly in the corner waiting to be noticed. And still, we’re expected to smile. To be grateful. To play along. That version of Christmas has never worked for everyone. Strip it back and the original story is small and simple. At its heart, Christmas is a religious celebration. It’s about the birth of Jesus—God coming into the world as something vulnerable, fragile, and human. A quiet a...

As the holiday season nears, streets glitter with lights, homes echo with carols, and an air of joy seems to permeate the world. Yet, for many, the phrase "Merry Christmas" holds a bittersweet undertone, as this season isn’t as joyful as it seems. The Pain of Loneliness For those mourning lost loved ones, Christmas often brings painful reminders of shared moments now out of reach. Decorating trees, unwrapping gifts, or enjoying holiday meals can amplify the sense of absence. Similarly, individuals separated from their families—whether by physical distance, estrangement, or personal reasons—feel the weight of isolation during a season centered on connection. Financial Struggles Amid Festive Expectations Christmas often equates to spending—lavish gifts, elaborate decorations, and indulgent feasts. For those facing financial hardships, this pressure to meet societal norms can lead to stress and feelings of inadequacy. The season’s commercial nature sometimes overshadows its true...