Slowing Down During the Holidays

Dec 13

“Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays!”

~*NSYNC

It’s mid-December… the busiest time of year. Between holiday parties, family obligations, end of year responsibilities with work, tons of travel, we are often being pulled in a million different directions, having to make choices about who we are spending our time with, how we spend are time, etc. it can be so overwhelming.

Along with the busyness, we often experience an onslaught of emotions - from trauma triggers to grief, the holidays can bring up many different big feelings. For many, the holidays are often the most difficult times of year.

**Here are 7 tips to help manage the holiday stress and increase the cheer and joy**

Prioritize self-care. Maybe treat yourself to a massage, maybe plan to spend a cozy night in with Netflix, maybe even make a plan to start therapy to work through whatever it is that is coming up for you.
Set boundaries. Doing too much or over committing can really do us in both physically and mentally - practice saying no to things that you don’t have the energy for!
Journal. Take some time to write out the big emotions that are coming up for you. Journaling is a great way to get a head start processing your emotions and experiences.
Honor. Honor loved ones that you’re missing at this time. The holidays are often times when we begin to notice the hole left my someone who is no longer with us, whether they are decease or if they are no longer in our lives.
Joy. Think about and make a list of what brings you joy - how can you do more of that during this busy time?
Mindfulness. Practice mindfulness, maybe take up meditation or mindful walking.
Self-compassion. Practice giving yourself grace and having self-compassion. What would you say to a friend who is struggling?

All in all, the holidays can be incredibly cheerful and full of joy AND they can be a struggle and full of difficult emotions. I encourage you to find a balance between the chaos and taking care of yourself. And if you need a little more help finding the balance, please feel free to reach out.