‘Tis the season, they say – a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. Yet, for many, the holiday season can feel like a roller coaster of emotions, from the highs of festive traditions to the lows of family dynamics and stress. Whether you’re celebrating holy days, healing from spiritual abuse, or just trying to juggle the demands of the season, the mixed bag of nuts that is the holiday experience is universal.
In the midst of this whirlwind, it’s essential to pause, take a breath, and acknowledge the emotional roller coaster that accompanies the holidays. Stress, even the so-called “good” stress, has a way of bringing to the surface the struggles we often work hard to keep hidden – anxiety, depression, short tempers, and more.
So, here’s an invitation:
Stop.
Breathe.
In the stillness that follows the chaotic pace, there lies an opportunity to find peace, whether through personal reflection, spiritual connection, or simply being present in the moment.
As we find ourselves in the middle of the holidays, consider taking a moment for yourself. Close your eyes, let the dizziness of the sudden halt subside, and embrace the stillness. It’s okay to acknowledge that, despite our love for family and traditions, they can sometimes drive us a little crazy… or a lot.
In the spirit of self-care and introspection, let’s delve into a few questions:
- What does this time of year mean to you? Reflect on the deeper significance of the holiday season in your life. Is it about spirituality, family, traditions, or a mix of these elements?
- What is spiritual for you, and what is family/cultural tradition and expectations? Differentiate between the spiritual aspects of the season and the traditions that might be tied to family or cultural expectations. Understanding this distinction can help in managing priorities.
- If you could wave a magic wand, what would you love this time of year to be like? Envision your ideal holiday experience. What brings you joy, fulfillment, and a sense of peace during this season?
- How can you achieve part of your ideal holiday experience? Get creative in finding ways to bring elements of your ideal holiday into reality. Small changes or adjustments can make a significant difference in your overall experience.
- What can you do for yourself to make deposits to your inner energy bank? Look ahead to the last days of the year and beyond. Identify activities that fuel your energy, excite you, and contribute to your well-being. Consider these as investments in your inner resilience.
This holiday season, amidst the chaos and expectations, grant yourself the gift of self-reflection and self-care. By acknowledging your emotions, setting intentions, and making choices that align with your values, you can navigate the holiday roller coaster with a greater sense of groundedness and agency.
May your season be filled with moments of peace, joy, and fulfillment.
I have a GIFT for you!
If the holiday season feels a bit stressful (or straight up traumatic) then you may find some guidance in my Beat Holiday Stress Workbook.
More than a workbook, this is ongoing support throughout the season to help you reconnect, define (or redefine) what the holidays mean to you and to courageously reclaim the holidays you’ve only dreamed of.
Find your freedom, peace and joy in the holiday season that you thought were long gone. Grab your Beat Holiday Stress Workbook HERE.
