The Challenge of Receiving
It can be a profound challenge to genuinely receive things from other people. And yet, receiving is a valuable and necessary part of the entire gift-and-giving process. When you refuse to receive, you short-circuit the kindness and intention of the giver.
The truth is: you are worthy of receiving what it is that somebody wants to give you.
I recently experienced this firsthand. A very dear friend, yoga student, and member of this community made me an incredible, unique piece of art—so beautiful that she even put it onto a t-shirt. It was a shirt channeled and created from her experience of me and my classes.
When she gave it to me, there was a part of me that instantly felt unworthy, that felt like I wasn't deserving of such an incredible, beautiful, thoughtful, and kind gift.
Checking Your Worthiness
In that moment, I really had to check myself. I had to consciously pause and say: "Yes, I am worthy and deserving." I realized that she felt called to give me this beautiful gift, and the only right response was to simply say thank you.
I think so often, when somebody offers kindness (whether it's through a gift or maybe a compliment), we immediately want to downplay it. We say things like, "It's nothing," "It wasn't worthy of that," or "I don't deserve it."
But you are worthy, and you deserve it. You know that because the person chose to pay you that compliment or give you that gift or to be kind to you.
So, as you go through this final week of the season, I want you to practice not only giving but also receiving. This holiday, when you receive a very wonderful gift, when somebody gives you a compliment, or is kind to you, please know that you are worthy and that you are deserving, and simply say thank you.
Wishing You Happy Holidays & Setting Intentions for 2026
As this busy Christmas week wraps up, remember to pause and honor yourself. If you're ready to make presence, intention, and well-being a greater priority next year, I invite you to focus on your meditation practice:
