A Compassionate Guide to Mental Well-being During the Holiday Season
Ah, the holiday season—the time of year when the air is filled with festive tunes and the world is adorned with twinkling lights. But let’s be real, beneath the sparkle, many of us might be feeling a bit more tangled than tinsel. As a trauma-informed psychotherapist, I’m here to remind you that it’s perfectly okay if your emotions don’t match the Hallmark cards. In fact, it’s okay to feel a little less “joy to the world” and more “let me survive this chaos”. Here are five tips, straight from my holiday survival guide, to help you navigate the season with mindfulness and a touch of humor:
Stroll, Don’t Roll, in the Park: In a world that often tells us to sprint through the holiday hustle, I say let’s stroll. Take a leisurely walk in the park, embrace the crisp air, and let nature be your therapy. You might not find sugar plums, but you’ll discover the sweet serenity of a mindful moment amidst the chaos.
Journaling in Nature’s Comedy Club: If the holidays were a stand-up routine, they’d definitely be a mix of laughter and chaos. Find a spot in nature, journal in hand, and let the trees be your audience. Document the hilarious mishaps and the heartwarming moments. Trust me, nature’s comedy club is the perfect place to find the humor in holiday madness.
Strumming Sanity with a Guitar: When the world feels like it’s singing Jingle Bells on repeat, grab a guitar, and strum your own tune. It doesn’t matter if you’re a maestro or a musical rookie—making music is a therapeutic escape. Consider it your secret weapon against holiday stress, and let the strings be your guide to a harmonious state of mind.
Reach Out, Because You’re Not a Festive Island: In a season that puts a premium on togetherness, don’t hesitate to reach out. Connect with friends and family, and let them be your anchors in the storm of holiday chaos. Share your highs and lows, because navigating the season is a team sport, and you’re not in it alone.
Thank You Notes: The Gratitude Gambit: Amidst the hustle, take a moment to pen down thank you notes for the wonderful people in your life. Let them know their presence is the greatest gift of all. It’s a gratitude gambit that not only spreads joy but also reminds you of the warmth and support surrounding you.
Remember, it’s okay to not be the human embodiment of a holiday carol. Embrace the messy, imperfect, and beautifully chaotic reality of the season. Let’s navigate the holidays with a sprinkle of mindfulness, a dash of humor, and a heart full of acceptance. After all, surviving the season is an achievement worth celebrating—tangled tinsel and all!
