The holiday season is filled with great cheer, but most of us aren’t willing to admit the mental, physical, and, sometimes, emotional toll we experience during the most wonderful time of year. Fighting your way through a sea of shoppers for bargain gifts, travelling to visit family and friends, mourning loved ones who are no longer here, and having to turn down—or finally give in to—the nonstop parade of dessert platters can leave one feeling anxious and depressed.
Holiday Blues
Holiday BluesIn fact, a study conducted by the National Alliance on Mental Illness showed that 64% of people surveyed reported feeling the effects of the holiday blues, a condition marked by sadness, loneliness, frustration and fatigue. Know the perfect antidote to the holiday blues.
Self-Care Plan
Here are some simple and straightforward tips to give yourself some tender love and care this holiday season.
Make healthy choices. Moderation is key during the holidays. Overindulging will only make you feel guilty later. Support your body by sleeping 7 to 9 hours each night and staying physically active.
Ask for support. Don’t isolate yourself. Take advantage of the gatherings to reach out to people who love and value your presence.
Create a budget and stick to it. Avoid trying to buy happiness. Decide what you can afford and don’t go over.
Treat yourself. Watch a Christmas movie marathon. Get a massage. Run a warm, bubble bath and turn on some calming music. Make a cup of tea.
Stop comparing. Log out from social media if your news feed is making you envious over your friends’ gifts, vacations, or family gatherings.
Fight stress. Write in a journal. Call and vent to a friend. Do relaxation techniques. See a therapist if you’re having a tough time.
It might seem selfish to take time out to nurture yourself during the season of giving, but it’s a daily requirement especially during the holidays. You’ll have more to pour out when your own cup is full. Try these self-care strategies to feel jollier than Santa this year.
