I returned from a trip to Australia recently and wrote a year end newsletter intending to share some amusing travel stories and photos. In light of the terrorist attack on Bondi beach last weekend, I have decided to park that newsletter and send a different message.

The attack on Jewish people who were gathered to celebrate the first night of Hanukah hit close to home. Not just because I am Jewish and was at Bondi Beach three weeks ago, but because it feels as if this could happen anywhere, even in Canada.

One of my friends sent me a note after hearing the news that touched me. It read: “I know there’s daily vulnerability and vigilance and it must weigh heavily. May your family and community find strength in ritual and connection over this holiday”.

Over the last few days, I have been reflecting on the poignancy of carrying on with celebratory rituals during difficult times. At Hanukah this year we feel both sorrow and joy, fear and hope, and I take comfort in showing up with family to light candles and carry on.

These are difficult times for many people, and holidays can be especially challenging. Whether you celebrate Christmas or a different holiday at this time of year, I invite you to reconnect with a ritual that has meaning for you. Perhaps it’s trimming your Christmas tree, attending a community festival of lights, meeting with an old friend for a holiday drink or sitting quietly listening to a favourite playlist.

I think rituals can help us all.

Ritual and connection build resilience.

Creating a well-being ritual provides a stabilizing experience and a renewed sense of control. Coming together with a community, a group of friends or colleagues who share your values enhances the experience.

Rituals are more than just routines: they are intentional, symbolic acts that serve as “psychological anchors” during periods of distress and recovery. Here’s how rituals benefit us:

  • Restore a Sense of Control: Rituals provide a predictable sequence of actions that help re-establish a feeling of agency over the immediate environment.
  • Regulate the Nervous System: Repetitive, symbolic behaviors have a calming effect on the brain, helping to lower cortisol and reduce the physiological symptoms of stress and anxiety.
  • Create Meaningful Structure: Especially during times of distress or loss, rituals provide a way to process emotions that words alone cannot reach. They act as a bridge between the “old normal” and an unknown future.
  • Foster Connection: Whether performed alone or with others, rituals can reinforce a sense of belonging and symbolic continuity with something more universal.

As we wind down 2025, there is plenty of work to do to build resilience in our communities and work places. I invite you to start small and establish a ritual that is meaningful to you.

If you are interested in learning more about how to build resilience and connection, please reach out to set up an introductory call.

Wishing you peace, warmth, and connection this holiday season. May your days be filled with light, reflection, and moments of care, however you choose to celebrate.

We are taking a break from December 24 to January 5th. To book a meeting or coaching session, click here to schedule online or contact us at info@krakauer.ca

Lianne and the KCI team