20 December – Permission to Pause

Christmas is not always the most relaxing time of year.For some, stress comes from the extra organisation and responsibilities; for others, it’s the pressure of “forced merriment” that feels heavy. Whatever your experience, today’s invitation is simple: step back from the Christmas rush and do something purely for you.

This doesn’t have to be grand or productive.Maybe it’s a luxurious lie-in, a long hot bath, your favourite form of movement, or simply slouching on the sofa watching television. Whatever you choose, allow yourself to fully lose yourself in the activity. For a short while, let thoughts about Christmas plans, expectations, and to-do lists melt away.

As you do this, gently notice:

• the sensations in your body

• the emotions that arise

• the sense of pleasure or ease you feel

There is no need to analyse or improve the moment — just allow yourself to feel it.

It’s easy to lose sight of simple pleasures at this time of year, yet they are often the most restorative. Freeing yourself from responsibility, even briefly, can relieve stress and often increases clarity and productivity once you return to the grind.

Today’s mindful moments

Today, I took my first opportunity to pause for just five minutes while walking along the river. I stepped off the path to look into a field where the winter sun was shining through a clearing near a gate. The light felt almost magical — shifting from a reddish-black hue to gold, then back to shadow. In that moment, I suddenly understood how sunlight can wake us in the early morning, even with our eyes closed.

My second pause came during a trip to the supermarket. On the way, I stopped at my favourite coffee shop for an espresso and sat down to write an important Christmas card. Being away from home meant no distractions — just coffee, pen, paper, and presence.

Today’s reminder is this: small moments of mindful enjoyment matter. They don’t need to be perfect, long, or planned — they just need to be noticed.

Give yourself permission to pause.