Hi, and welcome to the awfully quiet podcast. My name is Hannah. And today I've got something special for you. It's Christmas Eve. And if you're here, I'm guessing things are getting a little loud out there. Not such a silent night after all, huh? Take this as a little escape from the holiday madness whenever you need it.

Whether you're hiding in the bathroom or sneaking a solo coffee break in the kitchen, no judgment, same. Christmas Eve can be a lot. Between the noise, the endless small talk, and the pressure to have the best time ever, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Especially if you're an introvert. But let's clear something up.

It's okay to feel this way. It doesn't mean you're ungrateful or a grinch. You're just human. And honestly, giving yourself permission to take a step back is the best gift you can give yourself tonight. You need to give yourself permission to take a break. Seriously, go upstairs, hide in your childhood bedroom, lock yourself in the car for five minutes, whatever works.

You're not being rude. You're recharging. You can't pour from an empty cup. No need for elaborate excuses. A simple, be right back, need a minute works just fine. And while you're at it, ditch the guilt. You're allowed to prioritize your sanity and you will be all the better for it afterwards. So if you're holding your breath figuratively or literally, Let's fix that right now.

Wherever you are, let's take a moment to just pause. If you can, sit down, close your eyes. If that's not an option, just soften your gaze and focus on your breath. Ready? Take a deep breath in through your nose,

hold it for a moment, and then slowly breathe out. Let it out through your mouth.

Let's do that again. Inhale through your nose. Hold and exhale, releasing any tension you're holding.

Now let's check in with your body. Are your shoulders creeping up towards your ears? Drop them. Is your jaw tight? Go ahead and unclench. Let your hands relax. Your face soften and feel the weight of the day start to lift. Take another deep breath and as you exhale imagine all the holiday chaos, the noise, the to do lists, the pressure to make everything perfect just floating away.

Picture each worry as a snowflake Watch them drift gently down, melting as they touch the ground, disappearing into the earth. They are not yours to hold on to anymore. The noise fades, the pressure dissolves. All that's left is a sense of calm, like the stillness after a fresh snowfall. Let yourself rest in this quiet space.

Even if just for a moment. Take a few deep breaths here.

Take one more deep breath in.

And out.

And then slowly come back to the room. Feel a little better? Good. Because here's the thing. Mm hmm.

You don't have to be on for anyone tonight. It's okay to step away. It's okay to say no. And it's okay to just exist. You don't need to explain yourself or justify needing a break. Trust me, the world will keep spinning while you recharge. And when you're ready to go back out there. You'll be showing up as your best, calmest self, ready to celebrate the holidays with your loved ones.

Remember, the holidays are about connection, but that includes connecting with yourself. Your seven minutes in heaven are almost up, but that calm, you can take it with you. Anytime things get loud or overwhelming, Come back to your breath, relax your shoulders and remind yourself it's okay to prioritize your peace.

And if you need another break later, hit play on this episode again. I am always here for you. Merry Christmas Eve, quiet ones. I'm wishing you peace, calm, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting. You've got this and I'll see you next time.