It’s a jungle out there some days. Between construction traffic and the holiday hustle, it’s easy to lose patience. But every interaction we have is an opportunity for growth and reflection—and this time of year is a perfect time to practice a little extra kindness.
For those of us who love the holidays, it’s easy to forget that this season can be painful for others. A small gesture of kindness can go a long way. The holidays can be stressful, with work obligations, social gatherings, and the chaos of Christmas shopping in crowded stores. It’s no wonder tempers can run short.
What if, instead of giving in to impatience, we paused? Take a moment to breathe deeply, relax your face and shoulders, and offer a smile to the stranger in line next to you. Yes, a stranger. There are no “strangers” since we are all one, but that’s another blog. It’s incredible how a smile or a kind word can shift not just your own energy, but also the energy of those around you. Kindness is contagious—it has a ripple effect that spreads farther than we might imagine.
During a season when I often find myself wrapped up in all the things I need to “wrap up,” it’s easy to lose sight of what the holidays are truly about: kindness and love for our fellow sentient beings.
Spreading love and kindness doesn’t have to be extravagant. It’s holding the door for someone. Letting the person behind you in line go first. Being a courteous and alert driver. Saying hello to a neighbor or someone passing by.
I remember when Christmas caroling door-to-door was a thing—it was one of my favorite parts of the season. There was something magical about bringing joy to people through song, just because. Kindness may look different for everyone, but at its core, it’s about connection. It reminds us that we are not separate but part of something greater together.
Don’t forget self-kindness.
Kindness isn’t just about how we treat others; it’s also about how we treat ourselves. During the holidays, self-kindness might mean getting enough sleep, even when late nights and overindulgence tempt us. For me, it’s making sure my diet isn’t only Toblerone and Toffifee from December to January.
I’ve also started a simple practice that has helped me cultivate self-compassion and loving awareness. It might sound a little unusual, but bear with me:
• When brushing my teeth in the morning, I use my non-dominant hand (in my case, my left).
• After brushing, I look myself in the eye and repeat out loud ten times: “I love you.”. It’s important that it be out loud.
• Finally, I take 25 deep inhales and powerful exhales. This fully oxygenates my blood and leaves me feeling light and energized to start the day.
This practice may feel awkward at first, but it’s a small, powerful way to rewire the brain for greater self-love and awareness. Feel free to try it and repeat as needed throughout your day!
As we navigate the holiday season, let’s check in with ourselves before responding to any situation. Ask: Is my response coming from a place of love and kindness?
By doing so, we can create a more harmonious, peaceful end to the year—for ourselves and those around us.
Happy holidays, and may kindness guide us all!
Nicole Whitman