Lessons from a Christmas Tree

Last weekend we decorated the house for the holidays. This week, each morning I come downstairs, the first thing I see is the tree. It brings me pure joy. So many memories in such a small place. 

I realized this year that decorating the tree was more than a joy. It was more of a ritual, than a task. As I hung the ornaments, I realized this is one the most grounding practices I have in the winter. 

In the summer months I spend more time outside, barefoot, with my hands in the dirt. But in the winter, I spend more time inside, so grounding has to be more intentional.

On the tree are ornaments that hung on my family Christmas tree growing up and some that were on my grandparents tree.  I have ornaments from family vacations and places we have lived. There are some homemade ones that were gifts. And ones that tell the stories of my children and grandchildren. And there are my Santa ornaments. 

Each ornament is a doorway into another part of my story. The tree tells a story of where I’ve been, who I’ve loved, and who I’ve become. 

Here are some things I have been reflecting on this week. Maybe you will find something here to anchor you through the holiday season.

1. Good memories remind us of joy.

• They anchor us in what is true and beautiful.

  
  

2. Neutral memories give us rest.

• Not everything needs deep emotional weight.

• Neutral is grounding, too.

  
  

3. Hard memories don’t have to control the moment.

• We don’t have to pretend, but we also don’t have to relive.

• We can acknowledge without being consumed.

  
  

Grounding doesn’t erase emotion — it gives us a safe place to hold it.

Now, let me share my love of Santa Claus. For me, Santa Claus represents the very spirit of generosity, joy, and kindness without condition. Santa loves everyone, all over the world. 

When I hang my Santa ornaments, I’m reminded to stay generous with my presence, my patience, and my grace, especially during a month that pulls us in every direction.

If you’d like to join me in allowing the Christmas Tree be a grounding practice, here are some tips.

Recognize:

Notice what memories and emotions arise.

Reframe:

Choose what you want this season to represent.

Not perfection — connection.

Not hustle — meaning.

Restore:

Let decorating be a breath, not a burden.

Let it slow you down.

Rise:

Carry the feeling of the tree into your holiday season — grounded, gentle, intentional.

And, let me add here, if doing all of it feels like too much this year, do what feels right for you. Honor your inner knowing and trust that she will guide you.

We have made it into December, which means we survived Thanksgiving, the first big holiday gathering of the season. Let the tree be your reminder that you can move through the season with grace, not pressure. 

I know this season brings with it a myriad of emotions, memories, and experiences. Some of you reading this are grieving, some are alone. Some of you, like me, have complicated family situations, and others may feel overwhelmed.

Whatever this season holds for you, may you find at least one moment of light, even if it's just the glow of your tree at night. 

I would love to hear from you. Share a special memory or a photo of a favorite ornament. 

As a practice you can use the following prompt as your journal entry or a conversation with a trusted friend. What memory brings you grounding during the holiday season?

Much love,

Alice