Nurturing your mental health during the holiday hustle
The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy, togetherness and celebration. However, for many of us, the hustle and bustle, combined with social and family obligations, can take a toll on our mental well-being.
We’ve put together a few simple, yet effective strategies to navigate the holiday season with grace and mindfulness.
Keep your expectations realistic. Expectations come from those around us, but also from ourselves! Perfection is not realistic. So instead, strive for an idealized version of the holidays and focus on what truly matters to you.
Plan for breaks. Time out’s aren’t just for kids anymore. Let’s plan on some for ourselves! Carve out time to recharge and centre yourself. It could be a quiet moment with a book, a workout or a walk through the snow. Self-care is not a luxury, it’s a necessity.
Communicate your needs. We can’t read your mind. Voice your needs and boundaries. If you need support or require some time alone, communicate it openly and respectfully. Healthy communication fosters understanding and ensures a more harmonious holiday experience for everyone.
More isn’t always better. Whether it’s the number of events on your calendar, the decorations in your home or the number of items on your to-do list, quality trumps quantity. Let’s put meaningful connections and activities at the top of the list and let go of the rest. Embrace simplicity for a more fulfilling and less overwhelming holiday season.
Breathe! To quote most yoga instructors, are your shoulders earrings? Let’s bring them down a notch with some simple breathing exercises. Inhale slowly through your nose for five seconds, hold for three seconds, and exhale for five seconds through your mouth. Repeat as needed.
As we navigate the season, let’s prioritize our mental health and well-being. Set realistic expectations, schedule moments of self-care, communicate and practice mindful breathing and we can create a holiday experience filled with authentic moments. Remember, the true spirit of the season lies in connection, gratitude and the gift of taking care of ourselves and each other.