SOMA Living December 2025

FROM THE THERAPIST BY CHAMIN AJJAN, LCSW, A-CBT, CST The holidays can be a beautiful and magical time of year. For many, they bring warmth, connection, gratitude, and wonder. For others, this season can stir feelings of isolation, dread, or overwhelm. Most of us fall somewhere in between. No matter which experience feels true for you, stress is often woven into this time of year—even when it’s something you look forward to. One supportive step is simply pausing to acknowledge how you feel. Naming your emotional experience can be restorative. It helps you understand what you need and gives you the clarity to move through the season with intention rather than autopilot. This time of year, encourages gratitude and caring for others. It’s just as important to offer that same care to yourself. A simple way to do that is through a short Loving Kindness Meditation, which builds compassion and connection. Try this three-part practice: Sit comfortably. Close your eyes or soften your gaze. Notice your breath. When ready, recall a loved one and silently repeat: May you be safe and protected. May you live with ease and kindness. May you feel joy. Next, recall someone you find difficult: May you be safe and protected. May you live with ease and kindness. May you feel joy. Finally, offer the same phrases to yourself: May I be safe and protected. May I live with ease and kindness. May I feel joy. Take a final breath and notice any shift. If you prefer a guided meditation, you can also explore my offerings at https://www.youtube.com/@ chaminajjanpsychotherapy1784. Happy Holidays.

Stay connected to yourself and the ones you love. Care for your mind, heart, and whole being.

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Chamin Ajjan, LCSW, A-CBT, CST is a licensed clinical social worker who did her undergrad work at UC Berkeley and attended graduate school at Columbia University. She has been in private practice since 2004.

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