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The holidays are a festive — and often frantic — time of year, with family and friends gathering together ^[2]. The setting for all these celebrations takes place in our homes, where creating comfort for our guests ^[3] is the primary focus.

A warm, welcoming home ^[4] is an extraordinary gift, not only now but all year ’round. A healthy home environment ^[5] nurtures and supports the wellness of its inhabitants — which naturally extends to anyone entering their dwellings.

A peaceful, loving home can be felt both physically and emotionally. There are lots of ways to make your home express heartfelt glad tidings. Here are a few tips to help you prepare your home before guests arrive:

• Having an organized, clutter-free space ^[6] automatically creates a feeling of calm.

• Folks will get a sense of ease upon entering if room is made for their belongings with extra coat hangers (and closet space), as well as a place to sit down to take off their snow boots.

• Lighting candles scented of pine, cinnamon, orange or any of the myriad seasonal soy or beeswax choices will create a primal-feel-good-connection — all while bathing your home in glowing warm candlelight!

• Having your iPod® player set to soothing seasonal music sets an uplifting atmosphere ^[7] instantly.

I believe the most important gift one can give is the gift of being fully and completely present ^[8]. When a friend enters my home, I drop any task I am doing, greet him or her warmly (I am a hugger), and make them feel like the most important person in the world (which is priceless).

Take a few deep breaths this frantic holiday season and remember to let your home express the joy in your heart, after all, as we all know, “Home is where the heart is,” so make sure yours expresses exultation instead of exhaustion!

Warm Home Blessings!

May your walls know joy,
May every room hold laughter,
And every window open to great possibility!
~Mary Anne Radmacher