Let’s be honest—2024 has been a year. Between the whirlwind of world events, rising costs, and just the general hustle of life, it’s easy to feel more Grinch than Cindy Lou Who as the holidays approach. But what if, instead of trudging through the season, you chose to embrace its magic?
Jill Palmquist, Life Time’s vice president and storyteller extraordinaire, has the perfect guide to rediscovering your sparkle. Her new coffee table book, In This Lifetime, is a celebration of life’s fleeting and miraculous moments—a reminder that even in challenging times, there’s joy to be found.
“This isn’t about holiday burnout or packing your schedule,” says Palmquist. “It’s about waking up to the miraculous gift of being alive and letting the season’s magic help you reset.”
Here’s how you can de-Grinch-ify and step into the holiday spirit:
1. Celebrate EVERYTHING
Forget perfection—it’s overrated. Instead, embrace the little joys: stringing up lights, building a snowman, or dancing to your favorite holiday playlist. The act of celebrating, no matter how small, adds sparkle to your days.
2. Be Present for Every Tiny, Soul-Filled Moment
Put down your phone and step away from social media. Instead of scrolling, go for a brisk walk in the cool air, call a friend, or sip hot cocoa while watching the snow fall. The present moment is the ultimate gift.
3. Savor the Season’s Flavors
Instead of inhaling holiday treats, slow down. Savor the creamy richness of a peppermint mocha or the crunch of gingerbread. Engaging your senses transforms eating into a celebration of flavor and life.
4. Stay Active—But Make It Fun
Movement doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Schedule fitness dates, like yoga by candlelight or a snowy hike. Keeping active helps lift your mood and keeps seasonal sluggishness at bay.
5. Reconnect with Your Tribe
Whether it’s hosting a cookie-baking bash or cozying up for a holiday movie marathon, spending time with loved ones feeds the soul. You never know whose day you’ll brighten by simply inviting them to join in.
6. Treat Yourself to a “Spa-liday”
This season, self-care is essential. Think soothing baths, cinnamon-scented candles, and a good night’s sleep. When you take care of yourself, you’ll have more energy to embrace the season.
7. Savor the Divine Now
“This very moment is your greatest gift,” says Palmquist. With every twinkling light or shared laugh, choose to be fully present. Life isn’t about waiting for the perfect moment—it’s about making the moment you’re in perfect.
As the holidays approach, Palmquist reminds us that the darkness of winter only amplifies the light within us. So this year, let your sparkle shine. You might just discover a new kind of magic.
About Jill Palmquist
Jill Palmquist is the vice president and chief storyteller at Life Time and the author of In This Lifetime. Through breathtaking photography and profound essays, her work is a reminder to celebrate the fleeting beauty of life.
What are your tips for rediscovering joy during the holidays? Share your sparkle stories in the comments!
