Slowing Down for the Season Ahead
As we move into November, it’s easy to feel the rush of the Christmas season. Tree goes up, to-do lists get longer, and our world around us seems to get busier.
At Mäesi Apothecary, we believe that the best way to approach the season is by slowing down and choosing simplicity. What if, instead of leaning into the busy pace, we chose to embrace this time by moving with intention, focusing on what brings us joy.
Here are some ideas to cultivate calm, ground yourself and embrace the season with a sense of gratitude and presence.
Carve Out Quiet Moments Daily
Actively create moments to slow down - this will look different for everyone. Personally I like to start my day with some gentle movement and a walk with our border collie, Odin. As the weather warms up, visiting my favourite coffee van and grabbing an iced latte then heading home to pick the morning flowers from our apothecary gardens. By setting aside time each day for these small rituals —we connect with ourselves and set an intention for the day's tone.
Try This: Choose a simple ritual that can become your anchor. It might be as gentle as a skincare ritual in the morning or reading by candle light at the end of the day. These rituals become touch points that help us pause and appreciate each moment.
Shift the Focus to Presence Over Presents
For many, the Christmas is steeped in traditions of gift-giving, which can add stress if we’re not intentional. Instead of getting caught up in purchasing and planning, we can focus on the gift of our presence with family and friends. Engaging fully with our loved ones.
Try This: Consider choosing simple, heartfelt gifts or experiences that allow you to connect on a deeper level—like a handmade item from a small business, a shared meal, or baked biscuits.
Embrace Slow Self Care to Recharge
With so much focus on others during the holidays, it’s easy to lose sight of our own needs. Taking time for self-care is absolutely essential - this allows us to give from a place of fullness. At Mäesi Apothecary, we see self-care as a way to nurture and recharge, honouring the natural cycles within us.
Try This: Try adding grounding practices like yoga or meditation, or a skincare ritual to your day. Our ritual balms are a perfect addition to such practices. Slowing down through self-care allows us to reflect, rejuvenate, and move forward with greater balance.
Let Go of Perfection and Embrace the Beauty of Simplicity
The Christmas season often brings pressure to make everything look and feel “perfect.” But sometimes, simplicity and authenticity bring more joy than a perfectly curated experience. Embracing imperfections and focusing on genuine connection allows us to step back and see beauty in small things - the memories, the laughter, and the warmth of being together.
Try This: When you feel the pull toward perfectionism, take a deep breath and ask yourself what’s truly important. Can you find a way to simplify? Maybe it’s a homemade holiday meal with friends rather than an elaborate feast, or a cozy evening with a small group instead of a big event.
We believe that Christmas can be a time of renewal, connection, and joy when approached with intention and gratitude. Slowing down helps us appreciate the true gifts of the season—love, community, and presence.
I hope your November and December are filled with mindful pauses, meaningful connections, and the gentle beauty of simplicity.