The holidays present an amazing opportunity to hold the mirror up to yourself and take a good long look. When I think of holding up my mirror, I imagine using one of those big, magnifying mirrors that show every wrinkle and pore on the skin. I want to see myself as I truly behave right now because I know that there are about 100 things in December that challenge me and leave me at less than my best. How do I behave and struggle against what I can’t control – the pressures of work, financial obligations, the jarring shift to winter climate and darkness, the expectations of others, commitments to family and friends? As I practice witness consciousness, I see what happens when I feel under siege. While it is so hard for me to do, I know I can carve out some space to make note of that which I can change about the holidays, and that which I cannot. 

Once I accept and fight less, I can practice surrender to free a bit of myself from struggle and suffering. The space this creates allows me to more fully enjoy the wonderful times that come in the holiday season. The simple joy of lighting candles in the dark and singing with my family. The thrill of the first cross country ski day. The joy of taking time to thank those who make my life special every day. The favorite gifts I give are not to my kids who get everything all year long (gasp!). I really love the little tiny gifts I get for the person who expected nothing. The look on their face when they see that they are remembered is worth whatever small amount I spent. 
I am grateful for the small group of people who have enjoyed yoga with me this year. I am always learning from you, and so I see that I am really a student of yoga, and my teaching is part of that journey. 
Please be safe and peaceful this Holiday.