The holiday season is here — a time that promises joy, connection, and celebration. Yet, for so many, it can feel  more like an unrelenting sprint with what seems like too much to do and not enough time to do it. Between the shopping lists, holiday parties, and year-end to-dos, it’s easy to find ourselves moving so fast that we forget to savor the moments that make this season so magical!

Let’s make this year different. Instead of racing through December, what if we embraced a slower pace? What if slow is the new strong?

That would indeed be magical.

That might seem counterintuitive. But strength doesn’t have to be continually pushing ourselves harder or achieving more. Strength can be stepping back, creating space, and being more present. Imagine experiencing the holidays not as a blur but as a series of intentional, joyful moments.

The Power of Slowing Down

Slowing down doesn’t mean doing less. It means doing things differently. It means tuning in to what truly matters: the laughter of loved ones, the warmth of a crackling fire, the quiet beauty of a snowy morning. These are the moments we miss when we’re caught up in the rush of the season. 

Slowing down isn’t just about external activities. It’s an internal shift of moving from a mindset of scarcity —“there’s not enough time”— to one of abundance — “there’s always time for what matters most.” We shift our experience by changing our mindset and behaviors. Begin by giving yourself permission to slow down.

Why Slow is the New Strong

In yoga, strength comes not from forcing your body into a pose but from being fully present in the movement or stillness. It’s about balance, breath, and surrender. Life is no different. Slowing down gives us the space to realign with our priorities, recharge our energy, and reconnect with ourselves. It’s a radical act of self-love.

When we slow down, we subconsciously give others permission to do the same. Presence is magnetic. It draws people in and creates deeper connections.

Here are three actionable ways to slow down and soak it in.

Practice mindful pauses. Set aside just five minutes a day to breathe deeply and reconnect with the present moment. Whether it’s sipping a cup of tea, watching the snow fall, or simply sitting in silence, these small pauses can ground you in the present moment and reduce stress.

Say “no” to say “yes.” Your time and energy are precious. Instead of saying yes to every invitation, prioritize the activities and people that bring you joy. Saying no can be an act of strength, self-care and self-love. It’s a way of establishing healthy boundaries by saying no to others so we can say yes to ourselves. 

Focus on the senses. The holidays are a feast for the senses. Notice the twinkle of lights, the scent of pine, the taste of homemade cookies or the pure joy of the laughter of young children. By focusing on your senses, you can bring yourself back to the present moment and savor the experience.

Make Your Holidays Happy

This holiday season let’s redefine strength. Let’s slow down, not as a sign of weakness but as an act of courage. Let’s be fully present for the moments that matter most. After all, life isn’t about racing to the finish line. It’s about enjoying the journey and each delicious present moment, one breath at a time.

So, here’s to the holidays. Here’s to presence, peace, and the strongest kind of people — the ones who know when to slow down.