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Our Christmas List: Infuse your holiday season with wonder in 4 steps

Here’s what is on our grown up Christmas list.

Children often dream of new bikes, toys, or clothes for Christmas. But, for many moms, the true Christmas wish list is filled with intangible desires such as joy, peace, contentment, and comfort. These are the gifts that can’t be bought or found under a tree.

We’re helping you feel and find those gifts your heart really desires. Studio 5 Relationship Contributor Dr. Matt Townsend emphasized the importance of wonder during the holiday season. He defines wonder as a deeper connection to things, events, people, and the spirit. “If I had to put wonder in one word, it’s connection,” he said.

 

A sense of wonder can be achieved through four key steps.

Step 1: Be Present

To truly experience wonder, one must be present in the moment. Matt explained, “The great present of wonder comes from your presence in the space in the moment.” Engaging your senses—smelling, touching, tasting—can help bring you into the now. Enjoying a treat from a neighbor, for example, should be a mindful experience, not a rushed one.

Step 2: Cultivate Curiosity

Curiosity is essential for breaking the monotony of daily life. Matt shared a personal story about how his daughter-in-law’s curiosity and enthusiasm for decorating the Christmas tree rekindled his own sense of wonder. “Get curious about everyone around you and everything around you,” he advised.

Step 3: Embrace Awe

Awe is a powerful emotion that can humble and inspire us. Matt noted, “Awe is this feeling that you feel when you see something that is so awe-inspiring that it actually humbles you.” Simple moments, like watching children sing or participating in charitable acts, can evoke this sense of awe and deepen our connection to the season.

Step 4: Open Your Heart

Finally, opening your heart to the emotions and experiences of the season is crucial. Matt encouraged us to be vulnerable and let the wonder in. “One of the keys to wonder is to actually open yourself up enough to be vulnerable,” he said. Viewing the holiday through the eyes of others, such as children, immigrants, or the elderly, can also enhance our appreciation and connection.

Wonder is the Glue

The true essence of Christmas for moms lies in the intangible gifts – like wonder. By being present, cultivating curiosity, embracing awe, and opening our hearts, we can create a holiday season filled with awe and deeper connections. “The mortar in between the bricks of Christmas is the wonder. It’s what’s holding it all together,” said Matt.


Find more advice from Matt at matttownsend.com. Use code ‘datenight20’ for a discount on tickets to Matt’s Date Night.

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