Small Moments of Presence (Week 2)

The holidays often bring a mix of financial, family, social, and work-related pressures—along with high expectations and the stress of trying to create the “perfect” experience. I’ve spent countless hours chasing that ideal: crafting flawless Christmas cards, attending every concert, dinner, party, and cookie exchange, and spending money I didn’t have just to ensure a mountain of gifts under the tree. Yet, on December 26th, I often woke up feeling drained, regretful, and disappointed. Looking back, I realize that in my effort to please everyone, I rarely paused to simply enjoy the moment. Instead of focusing on the present, I was caught up in making sure today measured up to yesterday and that tomorrow would be even better. While each of our stories is unique, I believe many can relate to this struggle during the holiday season.

Being present means embracing the here and now. It’s about fully engaging with the current moment instead of getting caught up in future worries or past regrets. When you practice presence, you stay consciously aware of what’s happening—both within yourself and around you—free from distractions. This simple shift can ease anxiety, reduce stress, sharpen focus, and cultivate a deeper sense of well-being and appreciation for life as it unfolds. The more you practice being present, the easier it becomes and more benefits you receive from the practice. Small doses of being present during the day is an antidote for overwhelm.

When feelings of frenzy, anxiety, or dread creep in about the next holiday task, pause and listen to your body. You might notice a tight chest, racing thoughts, or exhaustion—signals that your nervous system is in overdrive. When these signs appear, stop. Take a slow, deep breath and focus on something around you—a scent, a texture, a taste, or a sight—and spend 15 seconds truly experiencing and appreciating it. If your thoughts begin to wander (and they will), gently re-direct them to the presence. These small breaks can help you create a calmer holiday season.

You don’t need to wait until stress takes over to practice presence. Even in calm moments, its benefits are available to you. Notice the sparkle of sunlight on snow or the comforting weight of a warm mug in your hands. Instead of scrolling through your phone at breakfast, savor the taste and texture of your food or the warmth of your coffee. Presence is a gift you can give yourself every day.

The truth is, being present is all we truly have. The past exists only as memory—unchangeable and beyond our control. Spending energy fixating on it serves no purpose. Likewise, the future hasn’t arrived yet, and the more we try to control or predict it, the more we lose the richness of now. Every moment spent in the present is time well lived.

If you’d like practical tools to help you stay present, visit the Resource section at www.itsabigskything.com becasue a resource to accompany this post will be shared this week. I will also share these tools on It’s A Big Sky Thing’s Facebook page. Wishing you a week filled with presence and the peace you deserve this holiday season.