The buildup to Christmas can leave children quivering with excitement by the time the holiday rolls around. There’s the uncertainty of whether highly coveted gifts will appear under the tree. There’s anxiety about whether other family members will like their presents. There’s pleasure in repeating beloved holiday traditions (and some trepidation around other traditions that aren’t as much fun). There may even be feelings of sadness or disappointment because of who can’t be part of the holiday celebrations because of custody arrangements, travel distance, or other circumstances.
Sometimes, children and families need a break from all the merriment. If your holiday season has become too tightly wound, try this simple Christmas candle meditation together.
Transcript
A Christmas Candle Meditation
Find a comfortable place to sit and close your eyes. (pause)
Place your hands on your belly and take a deep breath in (pause) and let it out (pause).
Take another deep breath in (pause) and let it out (pause).
Continue to breathe slowly in and out, noticing how your belly pulls your hands inward and then pushes them outward with each breath. (pause)
Imagine an unlit candle sitting in front of you. (pause)
Pretend that your finger is a lighter and touch the wick of the candle. (pause)
Watch the candle flame begin to flicker (short pause) and then grow stronger. (pause)
Keep watching the candle flame as you breathe slowly in and out. (pause)
Imagine that the light from the candle surrounds you. (pause)
Feel its warmth encircling your body. (pause)
Feel the light moving into your body. (pause)
Imagine yourself glowing like a candle. (pause)
Continue to breathe slowly in and out. (pause)
When you are ready, open your eyes and return to your holiday activities.
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