Cultivating Mindfulness in the Holiday Season (and Beyond)

By Lisa M. Belisle, MD, MPH
Originally published December 2005, Community Leader

It is easy to get caught up in holiday preparations. You rush about, buying gifts, mailing cards, decorating your house, and generally filling your days. While these may be enjoyable activities, the fact that they are added into your already busy schedule can make them a source of stress. Unfortunately, stress can have a very negative impact on your health. It has been linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, reduced immune function, depression and many other illnesses. Looking for an effective stress reliever? Practice mindfulness. No matter what time of year it is, or how special the occasion, cultivating mindfulness has the power to improve your health—and transform your life.