A staff member commented to me last week that the culture and community in our two programs never seemed more positive and supportive than they were in 2024. This could not have been achieved without the hard work of our wonderful staff. And it was hard work as our staff utilized  the very same practices that we teach to our clients and families. These practices are embodied in the mental health principles of mindfulness and mentalization and acceptance.

As we head to events with family and friends, we encourage everyone to practice mindfulness and savor the small joys in each moment, such as the aroma of a warm meal, the sound of laughter, or the beauty of twinkling lights and candles. By grounding ourselves in the here and now, we can cultivate gratitude and appreciation for what is within our immediate experience. 

When conversations with loved ones veer into contentious or emotionally charged topics, take a moment to pause and reflect on the fact that different people have different perspectives. This practice helps us navigate relationships by fostering empathy and compassion as we remember that those around us share the same hopes, wishes, strivings, and sensitivities that we do. Practicing this skill can create more meaningful connections, helping us to approach interactions with curiosity and understanding rather than judgment or defensiveness.

Mindfulness can guide us in recognizing when we need rest or when certain environments are overstimulating. Mentalization can help us anticipate how our actions or words might impact ourselves and others, allowing us to make choices aligned with our values and emotional needs. By integrating these principles into our holiday season, we can create moments of joy and connection that feel authentic and grounding, even in the face of a challenging world.

The staff and Cornerstones and Rubedo Transitions would like to wish all of our partners the most happy of holidays!

Written by Jacob Gelles