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Moxie on Monday

Moxie on Monday: Open Your Presence This Christmas

Practice being mindful, kind, and savor each moment

By Catherine Grace O’Connell December 23, 2024

A person dressed in a Santa outfit holds a white sack in front of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, embodying the spirit of "Open Your Presence." Nearby, a white dog sits among the festive decorations, all set to bring moxie to your Monday.

The holidays can feel like a whirlwind — our to-do lists grow, our calendars overflow, along with the pressure to create the “perfect” Christmas atmosphere. But what if the best gift wasn’t wrapped in ribbons or bows? What if the most meaningful gift we could give was our presence?

I’ll bet you’ve met someone in your life whose energy fills the room — someone unforgettable, who seems to glow from within. These radiant souls share a secret: the power of being fully present. Their presence is their superpower, and it’s one we all have within us.

Many of us lose connection to our presence through the busyness of life. We spend so much time “doing” that we forget how simple “being” can be. Over time, this loss can leave us feeling unbalanced, invisible, or disconnected from ourselves and others.

The holidays bring with it the perfect opportunity for change. By slowing down, tuning in, and reconnecting to the beauty of the moment, we can rediscover the power of presence, not just for ourselves, but for those we love.

This Christmas, let’s embrace the greatest gift we can ever give: the gift of presence. Here are three simple ways to make it happen:

Create Space for Connection

Set aside time for uninterrupted moments with loved ones. Put your phone away, turn off distractions, and focus on meaningful conversations. Whether it’s sharing memories over a meal or simply sitting together in quiet companionship, be fully present in those moments and embrace the joy of being connected.

Practice Radical Kindness

The holidays can be isolating for many. Be intentional about spreading kindness to those around you, whether it’s inviting a neighbor to join your celebration, writing a heartfelt card, or simply offering a warm smile. When out in public, rather than rushing around, look people in the eye and offer a smile or a kind word. Acts of kindness deepen your presence and light up the lives of those around you. Win, win!

Find Stillness Within

Amid the hustle and bustle, carve out precious moments of stillness. Whether through meditation, prayer, or simply sitting quietly with a hot cup of tea or cocoa, reconnecting with yourself helps you to recharge while cultivating inner peace. This stillness allows you to show up for others with a full and open heart, becoming more mindful and present throughout the holiday season.

Presence is the antidote to holiday stress. It’s a chance to pause, breathe, and savor each special moment. It’s slowing down to appreciate the scent of fresh pine, the laughter of loved ones, the joy of little children, and the beauty of twinkling lights.

This Christmas, I invite you to unwrap your beautiful presence and share it freely. Consider letting go of perfection. Be kind to yourself and others. There is immense beauty in simply being.

The holidays aren’t about doing more. They’re about being more. Let your presence be the greatest gift you give this season.

Wishing you a joyful and present precious Christmas this year and every year.

About Moxie on Monday

Catherine Grace O’Connell is chief executive cat-alyst of her female-focused digital media agency MODLife Media and an expert on becoming ageless in mind, body, and spirit. She has more than 30 years of study and experience in natural wellness, mindfulness, meditation and fitness. She is also the founder of Ageless In Seattle, a heart-centered community for women of all ages. You can follow her on her website CatherineGraceO, Instagram @catherinegraceo, and Tiktok @catherinegraceo

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