Instead of an afternoon coffee, try a walking mediation: Just walk slightly slower than your normal pace but not so slow that anyone would notice. What makes it a meditation is that you’re paying attention to the experience. As you move along, really see what’s in front of you and notice the sensation of your feet against the ground. Whenever you realize that your mind has strayed, in a friendly but firm way, return it to the experience. Integrating mind and body with a conscious walk lets you cultivate concentration, engage your muscles, bring fresh air into your lungs, and take your mind off your worries. Remember you don’t have to walk super-slow, like a zombie. But take your time. You’re not trying to go anywhere but inward- Cyndie Lee

I love the words above so I printed them on cute cardstock sent them to each of my girlfriends with a single envelope of peppermint  hot chocolate. My message was I wanted them to slow down and take it all in. Remember self-care and that the season is less about what you’re giving and more about the memories you create.

I felt I had accomplished this shortly after sending out my gifts  my dear friend Abby, texted me ” Had to stop and take this while walking across the  sky bridge. Oh, and don’t think I didn’t pick up on all the red lights…lol ” Then today when I arrived home I found happy mail from my dear friend K. The note read “I suck! I loved the card. I posted it on my fridge as a reminder to do me. I really meant to call you but time just fucking flew by. Well, girl, yesterday I got the kids’ holiday schedule, the in laws are coming (who’s cooking?) and I have NOT started my damn Christmas shopping. It was all so much so I ran away to Starbucks. I got a tea and just found myself walking and admiring the Christmas lights. Thank you for reminding me to slow down. Oh, and the tea was so damn good I had to go back and buy us both some, Merry Christmas and, yes, I said Christmas.” The gift made me smile, I sent K, and email that read “Thank you and your not alone check out this post  oh and this one.”

Boozy Peppermint Hot Chocolate

• 1 Starbucks Peppermint hot chocolate Packet mix
• 1 cup of milk
• 1 holiday splash of Irish cream or peppermint schnapps
• 1 squares of Ghirardelli Peppermint Bark

Heat milk in a medium saucepan over low heat. Add Peppermint hot chocolate packet, whisking constantly, until lumps are dissolved. Place one squares of Ghirardelli Peppermint Bark in the bottom a mug and pour hot chocolate on topping it off with a holiday splash of Irish cream or peppermint schnapps. Cheers!