The Holidays can be Hard for Many

December can be Stressful

It can be a source of financial stress and struggle, there might be stressful travel or events. For some it might be a time of grief and remembrance of those passed.

The holidays season is also a time when families come together, this can mean heart warming experiences spending time with loved ones, and it can also mean truly challenging and hard moments in some of the most important and at the same time complex relationships we have. Family and those closest to us tend to feel the most comfortable being themselves, this can mean intense emotional experiences just when we want to relax and rejuvenate ourselves.

Wherever we go there we are

Many of us find ourselves in such a busy world much of the year that we look forward to that time at the end of the year to relax and regroup. What can end up happening is as our life slows down even for a few days we are confronted with all the big emotions and upsets that have been building up underneath all our busyness. For some that might be a cold or flu, for others it’s a lot of strong feelings that seem to come out of nowhere. Without the distraction of our day to day lives we have a little more mental and emotional room inside for these things to get our attention.

A few Simple things to remember to improve your December

Here are a few things to practice or remember to get through the holidays with a little more joy and acceptance.

Everyone is facing challenges that we can’t see – See if you can remember that when in conflict
Take an extra breath or two before responding to something upsetting
Take a time out for yourself if something becomes overwhelming for you
Take some time to get outside in the fresh air and nature – It can be very refreshing and restorative
Express what you appreciate or are thankful for in your life and with those around you – This will create connection and a more enjoyable experience with others
Slow down – give yourself a little extra time to complete all those errands if you can
Balance your consumption and rest – Enjoy your food and drink but a more balanced approach will help you stay more emotionally regulated and less stressed and overall healthier
Be a little Selfish – Do some things for yourself – It can be hard for many us but only when we are taken care of, can we truly take care of others – Plus you deserve to have a wonderful life, no one else can do that for you!