Avoiding Holiday Stress
Avoiding Holiday Stress
Avoiding Holiday Stress
Holidays are meant to be like Hallmark Christmas Movies right? Then every year we are painfully aware that it’s more like a scene out of Christmas Vacation.
We become stressed, overwhelmed, overstimulated, anxious, depressed, and a lot of other not so fun things, too. Magically, a year passes and we seem to forget the pain.
As any of this may creep in for you this year, know that you’re not alone. And while I write out my blogs early, I don’t have a clue what the holidays will look like this year with possible mandates. This is either going to be your “get out of jail free” card or your trigger for even more of the painful feelings.
Holidays can be joyful.
Here’s how:
Be mindful of expectations
I know, I know. We really expect to be transplanted to a town named Christmas in the middle of New England, but truth be told, it’s not gonna happen. So, if we have this type of subconscious (key word) expectation in our mind, we are undoubtedly going to be disappointed. Take time to really visualize what a joyful holiday experience would be for you. Get really clear on this and adjust your expectations accordingly.
Communicate your expectations
So often we imagine exactly how we want an experience to go but never actually share it with anyone. And when it doesn’t go as expected, we get angry. Resentful. Maybe even pick a fight. It’s absolutely imperative to share your expectations out loud. Whether it’s a serious conversation or a fun one, don’t hold onto them quietly, share them. If you visualize a slower paced holiday with less traveling, SHARE THAT and make different plans. Feelings may be hurt, but this all has to do with boundaries. If you need a refresher, go ahead and read that blog post
Keep your rituals and routines
I’m one of the first that loves a good vacation day or a snow day. I don’t live to keep my weekly routine on the weekends. I’m absolutely not waking up at 5:30am to go meditate and journal. But what I AM doing is making sure I’m not getting into a rhythm of staying up way too late and sleeping in way too late. I’m making sure that I keep some type of rhythm to my mornings and my evenings that allow time for self-care rituals. I’m drinking my coffee and doing my journals, maybe at a different time and in a different spot, but I’m still doing them. It’s important to keep this up so that you are continuing to nourish your mind during a time that can be stressful.
What is your food and drink
I know. We are ready to indulge and dammit we deserve it! BUT, remember that sugar and carbs and alcohol can really aggravate our system and cause a whole slew of problems for us. From our bodies to our moods and more. If you’re feeling stress, pull it back in a bit.
Take a break
I remember when I actually got this concept. This can mean anything. Midday naps, early bed or literal walking away. At family gatherings, it’s not uncommon for me to disappear for a minute. Maybe I’m outside, or sitting in the bathroom. Sometimes I even go to where the kids are. Being an empath and an HSP, I need this little breather sometimes. You can do the same.
I hope this helps you breathe a little easier this season and enjoy your holidays with a little less stress and disappointment! I share a lot of similar info on my podcast. Be sure to take a listen!