Coping with the holidays

I am lucky that I look forward to the holidays at this stage in my life. I did not always feel this way. The pressure of so many celebrations, gift buying, and preparing, not to mention interpersonal challenges, had me feeling frantic, overwhelmed, and dreading it at times. But I learned how to take care of myself better, set limits, and focus on what matters to me. Now holidays bring joy, time to connect, both with loved ones and myself.

Here are some tips I suggest. Pick one, two, or all, and let me know if it improved your holiday season.

And please remember, if you are missing someone this holiday, if changes to your life have been too much. Please know you are not alone, and you matter. I have posted helplines below.

One thing that tends to fall by the wayside is self-care routines. Maybe you have yet to focus on yourself in the way you wish daily, so here are some suggestions from my previous blog:

https://www.compassionatecounselingmidmichigan.com/post/morning-routine-challenge

Another great way to shift our mindset is an authentic gratitude practice. Take time daily, even for a minute, morning and night, to recognize the little things we take for granted. See my blog for more ideas: https://www.compassionatecounselingmidmichigan.com/post/gratitude-practices

Other daily practices that can set the tone include affirmations, movement, consistent hydration, and a balanced diet. Our mental health is highly influenced by our physical health. For more ideas, see https://www.compassionatecounselingmidmichigan.com/post/daily-self-care

Finally, if you find that you are really struggling, try some practices I recommend here https://www.compassionatecounselingmidmichigan.com/post/i-need-my-therapist-quick

Or https://www.compassionatecounselingmidmichigan.com/post/trauma-healing-it-s-not-just-coming-to-therapy

And please reach out for added support and never forget that you matter!