Two simple mindfulness exercises to help you recenter after the holiday busyness

What do you really like? (And why do you like it?)

What a difference a week makes! Our family has dwindled down to four. My mum flew back to the US, and Quin and Ivy went with her (there were lots of tears). Easton’s girlfriend flew back to California and his friend Paul went back to Sydney. Then Easton went camping with friends.

After Christmas, we had to pack away the Christmas decorations and deep clean for Airbnb guests. We spent two full days organising, clearing out drawers and preparing the house for guests. (Phew! It’s always more of a mission than you’d think.)

We are now at our beach house with the two youngest kids, which admittedly feels really nice after the busyness of Christmas. (Isn’t it funny how we can look forward to Christmas with so much anticipation, only to feel relieved when it’s all over?) Michael has spent the last couple of days trying to remember how to cook smaller portions of food, and I’ve been reading my book and sneaking in naps.

Since Christmas, my phone has been switched off and tucked out of reach, something I do every summer. Already I’m noticing how much more calm and present I feel. My mind feels less cluttered and my awareness feels sharper. I’m even sleeping better! It really is a reminder of how easily distracted we can be when our phones are always near.

I realise this might sound a little earnest — suggesting mindfulness exercises while feeling unusually calm and well-rested in my current analog state (cue the eye rolls, I know). But I wanted to share a couple simple exercises, in case you’re craving a way to gently recenter and pay attention again after the holiday mayhem.

Here are two simple ways to feel closer to yourself and more present in the moment…