Happily Navigate the Holidays with Ease
Well, it’s that time of year again. I’m hoping that all of you, my friends, family, clients and therapy seekers are having a nice season. I know that it can feel rushed and overwhelming, at times. The season seems to demand more time, energy and money than we have. Many of us may feel that our resources are already taxed and then along come these new ways to stretch even further.
Breathe….
Seriously, breathe. Rushing around, multi-tasking, and ignoring self-care, create stress. And stress shoots a hormone, cortisol, directly into our bodies. Too much cortisol leads to fatigue, decreased energy, irritability, impaired memory, depressed mood, decreased libido, insomnia, anxiety, impaired concentration, crying, restlessness, social withdrawal, and feelings of hopelessness. And if that didn’t get your attention, stress also leads to overeating and weight gain!
So, I’ve compiled a short list about how to navigate these holidays more easily:
- Focus on what you Love about the Holidays
- Eliminate or Simplify what you don’t absolutely Love
- Ignore TV and magazine versions of the Holiday Season
- Practice Mindfulness: Be Fully Aware of the Present Moment
- Let Go of Other People’s Expectations
- Stop Being a Perfectionist
- Rise Above the Guilt
- Listen to the Wise Men…Give to those in Need
- Be Unconventional
- Get out of the Kitchen (Or IN if cooking relaxes you)
- Cut Down on Spending by Making a Budget
- Be Aware of the Pull to Overeat and Drink
If you follow these simple guidelines and remember to take a few moments to yourself everyday, you’ll have the best chance of truly enjoying what the Holiday Season offers.
And don't forget yourself! Below are a few tips for beefing up the Self Care this year:
- Spend 10-20 minutes each day in silent thought, meditation, or prayer
- Get some exercise
- Go for walks outdoors
- Play
- Listen to your Favorite Music
- Take long, hot baths
- Eat healthy foods and drink soothing herbal teas
- Laugh as much as possible
- Connect with a loved one
- Do something that Matters to only You
One last word. Depending on our Childhood Memories, some of us can get triggered into real Clinical Depression at this time of the year. If you find yourself experiencing anything more than the usual “holiday blues” and these suggestions just don’t seem possible for you, then please call and schedule an appointment with me.
Wishing you love, peace, harmony and true joy this Holiday Season!