We have had quite the year wouldn’t you agree?
Most of us are ready for some good news and joyful moments. The arrival of the Holiday Season could not be more welcomed.
However, while the season is meant to bring feelings of love and cheer, it’s also the cause of holiday stress for many.
Add in the continued social distancing restrictions and that stress has increased twice fold.
Adapting and overcoming is one thing we have become experts on this year so adding in some new strategies to help us enjoy the Holiday Season will be a walk in the park.
We put together 5 tips you can use to help minimize stress so you can get back to celebrating the end of 2020.
- Be realistic.
The year has been far from normal and traditions may be affected.
Don’t give up on them.
Adapt and find new ways to celebrate together. Share photos, connect virtually, host a virtual dinner, create new traditions! There are many ways to feel close to loved ones even from afar.
- Acknowledge your feelings.
Getting out of that stressed mindset is easier said than done.
Slow down, take a deep breath and acknowledge why you may be having these feelings.
We have to make adjustments in our everyday lives but it’s easy to sometimes forget to check in on our mental health.
Writing down what you are feeling in that moment can help you prioritize what to get done and when.
Give yourself grace, don’t sweat the small stuff, and don’t beat yourself up over things you can’t control.
- Find the positive.
The days may be shorter, and social distancing can make you feel isolated at times. But there are always ways you can connect and have fun.
Set up a day every week for a game/movie night with those close to you, get crafty and try something new, step outside the box and test out new recipes, or just have a dance party for the fun of it!
Focus on the good and push aside the negative. Spending time “counting your blessings” can help fuel your mind and re -energize you when you need it most.
- Stay active.
Exercise boosts your mood and releases endorphins your brain needs to feel happy.
Going to the gym, turning on a virtual fitness class, taking a 30 min walk, these all keep your body moving!
Exercise is proven to help decrease stress and is an effective way to beat the Holiday Blues this season.
- Don’t let yourself fall through the cracks.
We all need a little “me” time. Although you may be disappointed in canceled holiday plans or traditions, remain optimistic for the new year to come and take advantage of the quiet time to decompress and do a little self care.
Catch up on some sleep you have been missing out on, organize or sort through something you’ve been meaning to get to, set new goals for the coming year, or pick up that book you’ve been meaning to read.
Whatever activity brings you peace, incorporate that into your routine.
With planning and positive thinking we can all find peace and joy this season. Practice these mental health tips to help you have a happy and healthy holiday season!
Written By: Morgan Henry
