In the world of breathwork, framing is one of the most vital steps in creating a safe, intentional space for participants to embark on their journeys. This involves setting expectations, discussing potential experiences, acknowledging contraindications, and encouraging a release of preconceived outcomes. This practice empowers individuals to move through their sessions with trust and openness, fostering healing and self-discovery.
What if we approached Christmas in the same way? By reframing the holiday season with similar principles, we can cultivate a space that is more intentional, gentle, and meaningful, not only for ourselves but for those we share it with. Let’s explore how we can apply the concept of framing to Christmas.
Just as we set the stage for a breathwork session, we can consciously decide how we want to approach the holiday season. Begin by creating an atmosphere of calm and intention. This doesn’t mean rigidly planning every detail—it means deciding what values and feelings you want to prioritise. Is it connection? Simplicity? Joy? Peace? Choose your focus and let it guide your decisions.
In a breathwork session, we discuss what participants might experience physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Christmas, too, comes with its own spectrum of experiences, and acknowledging them can help us navigate the season more mindfully:
Emotions Can Surface: Christmas can be a deeply emotional time. Joy, nostalgia, grief, frustration, and even loneliness may arise. These feelings are all valid. Make space for them and remind yourself that you don’t have to act on every emotion—simply let them flow through you.
Physical Sensations: The holiday rush can lead to physical exhaustion, tension, or overstimulation. Conversely, moments of connection and stillness can bring sensations of warmth and ease. Be mindful of your body’s signals and respond with kindness.
Mental Activity: The season might bring a flurry of to-do lists, social pressures, or memories of past holidays. Thoughts may feel overwhelming at times. Practicing mindfulness and staying present can help you avoid spiraling into stress.
Spiritual Experiences: For many, Christmas holds a spiritual significance, whether rooted in faith, gratitude, or a sense of connection with loved ones. Take moments to reflect on what this time means to you personally.
In breathwork, we identify contraindications to ensure safety. While Christmas isn’t a medical practice, there are still aspects of the season that might need to be approached with care:
Perfectionism: The desire for everything to be “just right” can lead to burnout and disappointment. Release the need for perfection.
Overcommitment: Saying yes to every invitation or responsibility can overwhelm even the most festive spirit. Set boundaries that align with your energy.
Unrealistic Expectations: Expecting certain reactions from others or a particular feeling to arise can lead to frustration. Focus instead on being open to whatever unfolds.
Just as breathwork sessions include techniques and modifications to support participants when practices like Conscious Connected Breathing (CCB) feel too intense, we can also equip ourselves with tools to navigate the holiday season with greater ease:
Grounding Practices: When the energy feels overwhelming, grounding practices can bring you back to center. Whether it’s a short walk in nature, a moment of deep breathing, or a simple mindfulness exercise, grounding can help you reset when things feel chaotic.
Connection Points: Sometimes CCB may feel like too much, and we offer gentler techniques, like a hand on the heart or rhythmic nose breathing. Similarly, during the holidays, reach out to loved ones in small, meaningful ways. A handwritten note or a heartfelt conversation can bring connection without adding to the stress.
Intentional Pauses: In breathwork, slowing down the pace or trying a different style of breathing can provide relief. In the same way, build moments of stillness into your holiday days. Sip tea, watch a candle flicker, or simply sit in silence to recharge.
The most crucial aspect of framing any experience is to release expectations. Christmas doesn’t need to look like a Hallmark movie or match the celebrations of your neighbours, friends, or even past versions of yourself. Let go of the “shoulds” and embrace the present moment. Trust that what unfolds is exactly what is meant to be.
When we reframe Christmas with intention and openness, we create a safe and empowering space to move through the season. Just as breathwork allows us to release what no longer serves and invite in healing, reframing Christmas can help us shed the weight of societal pressures and embrace a holiday that feels authentic, nurturing, and aligned with who we truly are.
This year, frame Christmas for yourself and those around you. Set intentions, acknowledge the complexities, and approach the season with curiosity and compassion. In doing so, you might just rediscover the beauty and peace that this time of year holds.