The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy and celebration. However, it can also bring a whirlwind of emotions, ranging from happiness to stress. To truly enjoy this time, it's essential to prioritize your mental health. Whether you are spending the holidays with loved ones, friends, or even enjoying some solitude, these strategies can help you navigate holiday stress with purpose and calmness.
Circumspectly Reflect on the Future
As you imagine the future, January 2nd, take a moment to ask yourself: "What do I want to be able to say was true about this holiday season?" Writing down your answers can provide clarity.
Your list might include aspirations like:
I spent quality time with my family.
I set healthy boundaries that reduced my stress.
I did not shame myself for spending time alone.
I discovered new traditions that brought me joy.
For example, if your goal is to enjoy family time, you could aim to have at least three sit-down dinners together. Visualizing your intentions helps create a clear roadmap and can guide your choices during this busy season.
Surround Yourself with the Right People
Consider the people in your life who bring out the best in you, those who provide encouragement and make you feel the most alive.
Consider how you can incorporate them into your holiday plans. This could mean inviting them for a dinner, organizing a fun outing, or simply catching up by phone or video chat if you are miles apart.
If you don’t currently have anyone uplifting in your life, see this year as a chance to grow, plan, and reflect. Start a journaling exercise describing the qualities in a person you are hoping to one day meet.
For instance:
A good sense of humor
Empathetic and supportive
Has passion and is driven
Someone who gives back to the community
Documenting these traits not only clarifies your social aspirations but also serves as a guiding tool for building future connections.
Examine Your Holiday Expectations
While the holidays are filled with lights and festivities, take time to reflect on your self-imposed expectations. Identify and clarify for yourself how you define a meaningful and successful holiday season.
Ask yourself: where do these expectations come from, and are they beneficial? Many traditions might stem from childhood or societal influences that may no longer resonate with you.
For instance, if you feel compelled to prepare an elaborate holiday feast like your parents did, evaluate whether this truly brings you joy. Research shows that 45% of people feel pressured to uphold these traditions. If it feels like a chore instead of a joy, consider simpler alternatives that leave room for relaxation and connection.
Re-Evaluate Traditions
The holiday season often invites us to cling to traditions, but not all of them hold the same value over time. Adapting, evolving, and being flexible are crucial to your mental health.
Identify which traditions feel worn out or unnecessary. Do any place excessive burden on a particular family member?
Exploring new traditions can invigorate your holiday experience. You might try a new recipe, volunteer at a local charity to give back, or plan a getaway to a place you've always wanted to visit. A survey indicated that 67% of people feel happier when they break from routine during the holidays.
Change can be challenging even when it is for the better. It is ok to allow yourself to reminisce or grieve any loss associated with shifting traditions. Experiencing a mix of emotions is natural when adapting to new ways of celebrating.
Acknowledge the Challenges
Recognizing that the holidays can be difficult for many is important. Feelings of stress, anxiety, or sadness are common. Acknowledging these emotions is the first step toward mental wellness. The holidays often act like a magnifying glass to chronic issues that are present year round.
You're not alone; many face family pressures, financial concerns, or feelings of isolation at this time. Reaching out for support—whether from friends, hotlines, or mental health professionals—can make a big difference. Consider ways you might be able to brighten another's day in the same way you might appreciate another doing for you.
Practice self-care strategies like mindfulness and relaxation. Maintaining your daily routines, such as exercise and adequate sleep, can also foster resilience. Being aware of your feelings is important and validating as you navigate the complexities of the season.
Embracing the Season Ahead
You do not have to let the holiday season overwhelm you. By implementing these therapist-approved strategies, you can create a space that prioritizes your mental well-being.
Reflect on your aspirations, surround yourself with uplifting individuals, assess your expectations, be open to new traditions, and recognize your feelings. By embracing these practices, you can create a holiday season filled with meaning and personal growth.
As you enter this festive time, may you find peace, purpose, and insight in every moment!
© 2024 Mara B. Edmunds. All rights reserved.
***Disclaimer: This article is meant for educational purposes only and not meant to take the place of your licensed mental healthcare provider or your physician.
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