5 Easy Ways to the MOST BEAUTIFUL season

As I woke up this morning to a radio alarm playing Christmas Music, I thought Christmas Already?!?!?

In a conversation with my husband while watching the new Sherlock Holmes, Elementary show last night (It's great by the way if you haven't seen it...highly recommend), I said after seeing several Christmas commercials back to back....'jeeze don't we have 2 months left'. When I was informed NO...it's just about a month away! To be exact as I am typing this according to XmasClock there are:

What an opportune time to reflect on the Fall Season, and all of it's beauty. Although, depending on what state you are reading this email...you may still have bountiful of green leaves on your trees. Here in Kentucky from my personal barometer I'd say we have about 25% left of leaves on our trees. Our fall seemed to have started in September here with the beginning of the leaves changing, planting the mums, squirrels stealing freshly planted tulip bulbs....reaching it's peak of beautiful colors in October and early November.

I have been in awe by this Fall Season, as it has been the most beautiful fall season I ever remember. I couldn't quite pin-point why this fall season of all of the others in my life stands out the most. After a few weeks of reflection....I think I've Got It! To boil it down to one word:

Mindfulness

I am grateful to have had an opportunity since we moved to Louisville this year to have taken time off of my 9-5 career and pursue teaching yoga. This time has provided me with the time to cultivate Mindfulness....and I wasn't even trying to, it just happened upon me. Not everyone can be home during the day or  leave their job for an extended time....but I do believe everyone has the opportunity to create Mindfulness in their life. Here are some simple tips to BE PRESENT during the day that have really worked for me. I will forever remember this fall as the most beautiful.

1. Step outside even if for a few moments to appreciate the sunlight scattered over color changing trees, or as the weather changes snowflakes melting on tree branches
2. Take walks during the day to appreciate the smells of the season, feel leaves crunching under your feet -- don't discount even just a 2 minute walk
3. BREATHE - step away from your current task and take even just one deep breath in and a deep breath out. Notice your body. It IS TRANSFORMATIONAL.
4. Take a Picture to capture something beautiful - even if you only share it with yourself - it can spark moments of smiles and happiness later when you reflect
5. Become Aware of Details of your day you never noticed before -- the architecture of buildings around you, the height of trees, the flowers in your neighbors yard

My favorite fall moments of falling in love with foliage

As we approach a new season of winter, where things usually are dry, dark and dead 'looking'....take this as a chance to practice Mindfulness and notice what is blooming underneath the soil, the gratitude for friendships and family during the holiday season, the snowflakes, hot chocolate, your favorite flavors of Winter...and the opportunity the chill weather provides to slow down and reflect.

Image Courtesy of: ShambalhaSun