The holidays are a time of family, fun, laughter and joy, often followed by anxiety, stress, weight gain, and even depression. Sometimes seeing old friends and family can trigger feelings of insecurity or open up old wounds. Preparing for the holidays and shopping for presents may also force you to face some harsh financial realities. Instead of looking forward to a time of love and happiness, you could begin to dread the holidays.
Over the past few weeks I have found myself falling into a Holiday Haze; eating too much, then feeling guilty and blaming others for my lack of self-care. Once I recognized that I was doing this, I quickly put myself on a new routine to get more clarity, balance and inner peace.
The holiday season doesn’t have to be a hassle. You can be balanced and stay true to yourself with these easy-to-apply tips from my new book FIND YOUR HAPPY.
1. Put Down the Pity Party
This time of year it is natural to overeat and overspend. Give yourself permission to enjoy the foods that are part of this time of year. Instead of resisting the pumpkin pie and gingerbread cookies, simple enjoy them and embrace them with love. Do not fall victim to a pity party. The more you dwell and mentally beat yourself up, the worse the situation becomes. Accept what is and enjoy each moment fully.
2. Its Not About You
When we get together with friends and family, often old insecurities and emotions are revived. When a family member makes a comment, it’s best to not take it personally. Understand that it is not about you…ever. When someone says something to you, it is a reflection of his or her own point of view. Choose to stay true to yourself by going inward and asking yourself, “How does this comment make me feel?” By being honest you can move through your feelings, rather than lashing out, hiding out or turning to a numbing device such as food or alcohol.
3. Take a Mini-Me-Retreat
The holiday craze can catch up to us really fast, especially when we forget to practice self-care. When I feel anxious and stressed out, I stop to take a mini-me-retreat. I put myself first, by doing something that will nurture my soul. Sometimes it means a nature walk with my adventure buddy, my dog Tucker, a phone call to a dear friend, reading a good book or taking a hot bubble bath. Treating yourself kindly is extra rewarding this time of year. When you show up for yourself first, the rest of the holiday stresses seem much easier to handle.
For my on this topic listen to my recent radio interview with the Love Your life Radio Show, LISTEN HERE
