Tapping into Love, Light, and Presence

This morning, as I sipped my tea and watched the early light filter through the trees, I found myself asking two of life’s biggest questions: Who am I? What truly matters to me?

Unlike in years past, the answers came easily. Over the past few years, I’ve done the work. Soul-searching, excavating my truth, shedding layers of who I thought I was supposed to be. Now, with a quieter mind and an open heart, I see that I am living the life I once dreamed of: savoring moments with my beloved family and community, and running a design firm filled with warm-hearted, talented designers who create spaces that are not only beautiful but soulful.

Part of grounding for the holidays for me is appreciating downtime with my family. Here are my (now adult children) and their cousins over Thanksgiving.

Part of grounding for the holidays for me is slowing down to savor moments with my family. Here are my (now adult children) and their cousins over Thanksgiving.

These spaces, to me, are more than homes—they are reflections of a life well-lived. They invite us to gather with loved ones, connect over meals, and fill our surroundings with objects that carry meaning. They’re built on values I hold dear: quality craftsmanship, local artistry, sustainability, and dignity for all.

As we move into the holiday season, a time filled with both consumer culture and emotional triggers, I want to offer a gentle reminder to slow down and center yourself. The holidays can be a whirlwind—family dynamics, endless to-dos, and the pressure to create “perfect” memories. But what if this holiday season was your last? How would you want to remember it?

This is the question I use to ground myself in the present moment. It’s not about creating the most Instagram-worthy tablescape or finding the “perfect” gift. It’s about aligning with love and light so that, no matter what unfolds, you feel connected to your deeper self.

To help you find that connection, here are a few simple spiritual and self-care practices from my personal playbook. These are tools I use to stay grounded, present, and aligned, even when faced with challenges (like the family member who voted differently than you or the chaos of holiday schedules).

 

My self-care rituals include lighting candles, and using tools like spirit decks to inspire expanded awareness and perspective. Photo on left by Eyecatcher.

Your Spiritual Self-Care Toolkit for the Holidays

  • Rise Early and Light a Candle
    Set your alarm 20 minutes earlier than usual. In the quiet stillness of the morning, light a candle, take a deep breath, and simply be. This small ritual sets the tone for your day, inviting calm and intention before the world wakes up.
  • Practice Breath of Fire
    This energizing breathwork technique clears your mind and anchors you in your body. Try three rounds: inhale deeply through your nose and exhale forcefully while engaging your core. (If you’re new to this, look up a quick tutorial online!)
  • Gratitude Journaling
    Take a few moments to jot down what you’re grateful for right now. This practice shifts your focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant in your life.
  • Ground Yourself
    Stand barefoot on the earth—grass, dirt, or even your wooden floors—and visualize roots growing from your feet deep into the ground. This connection to the earth helps you feel stable and centered.
  • Soak Up the Sunlight
    Especially in winter, natural sunlight is essential for your body’s circadian rhythm and mood. Even 10 minutes in the morning can help improve your sleep, energy, and overall sense of well-being.

 

Most of my mornings begin with coffee while watching the sunrise in the Oakland Hills, and grounding my feet in the earth.

  • Check in with Your PEMS (Physical, Emotional, Mental, Spiritual)
     At least once a day, ask yourself: How does my body feel right now? What emotions are present? Where is my mind focused? How am I tending to my spirit?
     Journal your answers to bring awareness to your inner state and make adjustments as needed.
  • Create a Holiday Playlist
    Music has the power to shift energy and elevate your mood. Curate a playlist that inspires joy, peace, and connection to the season’s magic. (I call mine my “spiritual playlist.” And you can find it here on Spotify )

This holiday season, I invite you to create a home—and a life—that reflects who you are rather than what you want. Align yourself with love and light, and trust that everything else will fall into place. Whether it’s a simple morning ritual or a moment of gratitude around the dinner table, these practices will help you stay grounded, present, and truly alive to the spirit of the holidays.

Let’s make this season one to remember, not because of the gifts or the décor, but because of the love we share and the light we bring to those around us.

Wishing you a soulful, grounded, and heart-filled holiday season.

With love and light,

Laura

Written by Laura Martin Bovard. Photos by Laura Martin Bovard, unless otherwise noted.