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The last two years have shown us that December isn’t always the most wonderful time of the year. Holiday blues is a real thing and many of us experience emotional ups and downs. While you may be tempted to think that the Grinch might have actually had a point, consider trying one of these strategies to survive the holiday season.
Family arguments during the holidays is a tale as old as time. The reality is that sometimes we just can’t avoid people. This is when identifying our reactions to stress comes in handy – do you tend to cower and run away? Do you freeze and your mind goes blank? Or is your guard always up, ready for a fight?
Set Clear Boundaries
You may have heard that we can’t control what happens to us, just how we react to it. Think about previous family gatherings that caused you anger or pain. How did your body react? What emotions were you left with days later? Observing those effects on your body and mind may help you come up with acceptable solutions.
Whenever you feel a trigger, take a few deep breaths. Be mindful of how your body feels and try to act from a place of self-love. Setting small but clear boundaries is a form of self-love. Don’t take part in conversations that will leave you with an emotional hangover feeling for days. You may not be able to avoid a confrontational relative, but you can choose to sit far away from them and engage only with distant cordiality. Even something as simple as spending less time in that environment can have a huge impact on your experience.
Try our 3 Breathwork Techniques to Find Calm.
Whether stress causes unhealthy eating or sleeping patterns, it’s paramount to prioritize self-care during this time of year.
Practice Being Present
Whether you are spending the holidays in a dark winter wonderland, a concrete jungle or a warm location, holiday stress is bound to get to us. Find ways to disconnect from the rush and pressures of the season.
Maybe take a mindful walk. Set your phone to “Do not disturb” or leave it at home! Walk and notice everything around you... Pay attention to the small details on the floor, the trees or buildings around you. Observe the textures, the sound of your footsteps and the air around you. Notice your breathing, how your body feels and the sensations that you’re experiencing. Let any thoughts or feelings manifest, without labeling them as “right” or “wrong.” This type of meditation can help you unplug, breathe more freely and find a moment of peace.
If you can’t go out, you can still follow the exercise in a quiet room at home – the bathroom counts!
Gift-giving is a double-edged sword. The thrill of giving a thoughtful present versus the diminishing balance in our bank accounts can leave us feeling anxious. Even if you and your family aren’t quite ready to part with presents, there are ways to reduce the strain on your income and mental health.
Dealing with Disappointment
Have you ever experienced guilt for being unable to afford a high-end present? Have you felt resentment creep in after receiving a gift with no thought put into it? Approaching gift-giving with a mindset that values quality time over price tags will help you let go of any negativity.
Budget-Friendly Gift-Giving
Next time you discuss exchanging presents with friends and family, think of ways to make an experience out of it. Playing “Secret Santa” or organizing games to “win” a present is bound to create lasting memories. Agree on a budget per present to make it more inclusive to different income levels.
What about those of us who don’t have a house full of family to visit? This time of year can be incredibly lonely for some people. However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t find ways to connect, even if it’s only with yourself.
Celebrate by Pampering Yourself
Now is the time to give in to your guiltiest pleasures! Have you always wanted to cook a special dish, just for yourself? Do you want to commit to a movie-marathon? Do you have lots of books in your TBR pile? Maybe you simply want to listen to your favorite music as loud as you can and sing yourself hoarse. Or try this centering Mandala Flow, perfect for connecting with yourself at the end of the year.
Learning to have healthy “me-time” is often overlooked but it can change your outlook in times like these. Treat yourself in the same way you would treat a friend.
Holiday blues can manifest in different forms. Even if you’re dealing with something not included in this article, these self-care strategies, paired with a regular yoga and meditation practice can be a game-changer during the holidays.
By Aimeé Durán Triujeque; All Rights Reserved @2021
By Aimeé Durán Triujeque; All Rights Reserved @2021
