Embracing an Open Heart This Holiday Season
A few weeks ago, I spent a weekend away by myself for some much-needed self-reflection, praying for guidance, writing, and reading. This practice, which I started four years ago, has been instrumental in my personal growth. It provides the quiet my mind needs to escape the constant distractions I can’t fully avoid at home.
Stay with me here, even if this sounds a little “woo-woo” at first. I think you’ll find parts of my experience that resonate—and maybe even inspire you to find a way this could help your own life and health.
I tuned into what was that inner voice always talking about in my head? What was I avoiding and how in this season? What is the life I truly want to create and live? You know…all those easy to answer questions!
Here is one of the patterns I recognized, maybe you can relate. This is what I have always done and not realized it. I’ll give you an example with time, but you could substitute money, relationships—whatever it is you struggle with:
I look at my to-do list ➔ I feel like there’s never enough time, and I’ll never get it all done ➔ My stress increases, and anxiety sets in ➔ When anxiety hits, my heart closes, and I go into “protective mode” just to get everything done.
You might be thinking, “Yes, but I am busy and I need to get things done!” I get it—I agree. But one thing I know is true is that the to-do list will never be done. There’s always more to do. And I don’t want to miss meaningful connections just to cross off one more task.
Before opening Orangetheory, I was a Director of Sales at US Bank, where much of my work involved relationship building. I’d often fly across the country for meetings, lunches, and events. It used to irritate me when I traveled to meet someone and they spent much of our time together on their phone. Recently, I felt convicted that while I might not physically be on my phone, my mind often is elsewhere. I don’t want to be like that.
What I took away from my weekend of self-reflection was an intention to live with an open heart and fully present. It’s easier said than done, especially for someone who spends a lot of time in their head and focused on a to-do list. But what I keep reminding myself is this: no one will remember the perfect holiday dinner, decorations, or checklist items, but they will remember how you made them feel. When you’re with someone, are you really with them? If I’m constantly anxious, that energy spreads to others. But the same is true of calmness.
Here’s How I’m Doing It
Noticing Myself
It might sound simple, but just notice. Do you feel stressed or anxious? Ask yourself why.
Planning for the Day
Remind yourself that you have enough time, and make a realistic plan.
Staying Present
If I start to check out of a conversation, I ask myself why I’ve drifted—and then I bring myself back.
Dropping into My Heart
When I’m too “in my head” or feeling overwhelmed, I take three deep breaths and consciously focus on my heart.
Why This Matters
This is the time of year when many of us feel overwhelmed—leading to high cortisol, poor sleep, and impulsive eating choices. By the end of the season, we’re often just grateful it’s over. I challenge you to evaluate the things you’re saying “yes” to. Ideally, 90% of the things should be a “Hell Yes.” You won’t get to pick everything, but where you can, make sure it’s something you genuinely want to be part of. And remember—it’s okay to say no.
The alternative? Being stressed and running on empty this holiday season. Elevated cortisol can lead to poor food choices, weight gain, and skipping workouts. Come January 1, you’re ten pounds heavier and feeling terrible.
I’m not saying you have to be perfect this season. But I do encourage you to notice.
- Notice your stress and anxiety levels. Ask yourself why.
- Notice when you’re with people but not fully present. Is that how you want to be?
- Notice when you skip a workout or binge on holiday food (not the treat you really want, but the times when you stress eat and then feel guilty). What led you to do that?
There’s so much power in just noticing—without judgment, just awareness. Noticing when I’m too “in my head” and forgetting to truly see and connect with the people around me helps me decide how I want to show up each day.
One book that has been helping me on this journey is The Untethered Soul. It’s quickly become a top-five favorite, and I’m reading it again. I’m sharing it here in case you want to check it out too!
As we head into the holidays, I invite you to join me on this journey of noticing and living with an open heart. Here’s to a season filled with calm, connection, and genuine presence.