You made it through a busy weekend of Thanksgiving eating and holiday shopping. And now, the countdown really begins.

Burnout can take the joy out of your holiday celebration, so give yourself 5 minutes today.

If you can give yourself this gift every day, it will help you give and live from your heart more fully the rest of this month. A little bit of self-care can go a long way.

During those 5 minutes, turn the phone off, find a quiet place, and just sit and breathe. Let go of the worries, distractions, the things on your “to do” list.

Sit with your hands folded in your lap or resting on your thighs, and feel your life-giving breath flowing in and out of your body.

Breathe in peace.

Breathe out stress.

Repeat.

Share your reflections or ideas on this Advent Day 1 giving practice! Post a comment below…and if you’re on Twitter or Instagram, use the hashtag #24daysofgiving.

Learn more about #24daysofgiving!

(Image source: Kristine May)