Tips for Managing Holiday Stress
“Peace is not something that you wish for. It is something that you make, something that you are, and something that you do.”
Happy Monday, friends! We have officially entered the holiday season and are only 27 days away from Christmas. For some folks this time period feels exciting and nostalgic while others might find this season to be awkward, depressing, or disappointing. No matter where you find yourself emotionally during the 2022 Holiday Season (ecstatic, exhausted, or somewhere in between), I want to send you a few helpful reminders to keep in mind this year.
First off, release any judgment that you have towards yourself and your feelings right now. Try to give yourself freedom and flexibility to experience the full range of emotions (even if they are contradicting at times) during this holiday season. Remember that all of your feelings are valid and that you know the best way to take care of yourself during this time. Below are some other thoughts on how to manage holiday stress that I hope you find helpful.
Keep reading for more helpful resources!
Ideas on managing holiday stress:
~Make time for your own self-care:
No one will honor your self-care routines if you don’t! Try not to overextend yourself and to make time for your own needs while balancing other obligations. If you have a calendar that is visible to others in your home, try writing in your self care routines so others can see them & take notice of your priorities.
~Manage your holiday expectations:
If the holidays sometimes feel disappointing and that they don’t live up to “the hype,” try to manage your expectations and be realistic about what you want the holidays to look like for you/your loved ones. Give yourself time to reflect on your values and try to consider what you want to prioritize this holiday season and what most aligns with your personal values. Try to eliminate things that don’t align with your values from your schedule (if possible).
~Voice your needs:
Whether it be to your partner, family members, colleagues, or roommates, remember that the people around us cannot read our minds & that articulating our needs is vital for healthy communication. If the holidays are a time where multiple things pop up on your work/social calendar, be sure to communicate your needs with those around you to avoid burnout/resentment.
~Try to stick to your routines
With altered work schedules, traveling, and additional responsibilities, the holidays can sometimes wreak havoc on your previously established daily/weekly routines. Try to find consistency in your weeks by making room for your helpful routines & honoring the time you’ve set aside.
~Give yourself permission to say no!
Remember that you cannot be everything to everyone and that you are allowed to say no! Reflect on what the holiday season truly means to you and release the desire to “do it all.” You know your values & limits best and are allowed to set boundaries regarding your time and energy however you see fit.
I hope that these reminders help you to find peace, balance, and rest during this holiday season. Be kind and gracious towards yourself as you navigate your emotions over the next few months. If the holidays are a time where you experience sadness and longing for people or moments in time that have passed, please know that you are not alone and that there are helpful resources available for your needs.
As always, if you are located in the state of Virginia and looking to access therapy, feel free to send me an email (vbcounselingcollective@gmail.com) or give me a call (757) 434-5811 and I’ll be happy to help!
If you are looking for urgent/immediate mental health resources, please see below (available 24/7):
Crisis Text Line: Txt 741741
Suicide Prevention Line: 800-273-8255
Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233
Thanks for being here,
Ragan
