Resourcing for the Holidays
The holiday season is swiftly approaching, and this can bring up a range of emotions for many people. Perhaps you have been browsing Pinterest and planning your holiday menus with excitement, or have been waiting since December 26th of last year for “the most wonderful time of the year” to roll around again. You might be in bliss each time you enter a store playing your favorite holiday hits, are excited to engage in some of your favorite rituals, and are looking forward to connecting with family and friends.
On the other hand, you may be feeling pressure to meet societal or family expectations, preparing yourself for navigating challenging family dynamics or feel a heightened sense of loneliness when others are celebrating in merriment, and you are on your own. Perhaps you are experiencing the loss of a loved one or are reminded of past traumas, which can bring up feelings of grief or sadness. You may be feeling the financial strain of gift-giving and holiday expenses.
It is likely that you have a mix of feelings, and these can change depending on the day or minute. However you might be feeling about the upcoming holidays, it is important to connect with internal and external resources to help navigate potential stressors and emotional challenges that can arise during this time. Here are some strategies to help you resource to meet this holiday season with greater ease. Consider being intentional about creating a self-care plan over the next few weeks and months to prioritize and support your emotional health and wellness.
Mindful Breathing and Relaxation: Take a few moments each day to engage in mindful breathing exercises. Deep, intentional breaths can help regulate your nervous system and reduce stress.
Consider setting an alarm on your phone or use your reminder app to schedule time to pause.
Utilize apps like Insight Timer, Calm, and Headspace to engage in a 5–30-minute guided meditation during your lunch break, after work, or before bed to support relaxation and rest.
Stretch and connect with your body with awareness. Notice where you are holding tension and ask yourself what you might need to take care of yourself in the moment.
Reflect on Values and Establish Boundaries:
Take some time to reflect on your values and priorities. Align your holiday activities with what truly matters to you and let go of unnecessary obligations that may cause stress. Clearly communicate your boundaries with friends and family. Let them know what you are comfortable with in terms of socializing, events, or commitments. Setting healthy boundaries is crucial for maintaining your well-being. This is easier said than done:
Consider the compassionate NO. Spreading yourself thin and building resentment doesn’t do anyone any favors, including yourself. Give yourself permission to prioritize yourself.
Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. The holidays can be emotionally charged, and it's okay not to feel festive all the time. Practice self-compassion and allow yourself to experience and express your emotions without judgment. Take a self-compassion break by acknowledging your current struggles or difficulties:
Observe painful feelings and name them. “A part of me is sad right now.” A part of me is feeling lonely and rejected.”
Ask your suffering part what it might need in this moment?
Offer yourself compassionate touch:
Put your hand on your heart and take a deep breath.
Give yourself a hug. Place your hands on your shoulders or wrap your arms around yourself. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths, allowing yourself to feel the comfort of your own touch.
Create a Self-Compassion Mantra:
“I am doing the best I can in this moment.”
“May I be kind and gentle with myself when I am suffering.”
“May I incline my heart towards understanding rather than criticism of myself and others.”
Make up your own!
Connect with Supportive People: Surround yourself with supportive friends or family members. Share your thoughts and feelings with those you trust, and don't hesitate to ask for support when needed.
Engage in Enjoyable Activities:
Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it's reading a book, going for a walk, or enjoying a hobby, prioritize activities that contribute positively to your well-being.
Plan Downtime: Schedule periods of downtime during the holidays. It's okay to take breaks and recharge. Balance social activities with moments of solitude to prevent burnout.
Practice Gratitude: Cultivate a sense of gratitude by focusing on positive aspects of your life. Keep a gratitude journal or take a few moments each day to reflect on the things you are thankful for. Identify a gratitude companion who you can share with, this can help with accountability.
Creating Rituals: Establish personal rituals that bring comfort and joy. These can be simple traditions that hold personal meaning, providing a sense of stability and connection.
Resourcing through the holidays is about prioritizing your well-being and creating an environment that supports your mental and emotional health. Which of these strategies speak to you? Have you thoughts of something else while reading this that you find supportive? Can you spend a few minutes making a commitment to yourself to engage in one or two practices? I would encourage you to write them down, create a plan, and offer yourself the gift of self-connection and care!
