Making yourself a priority can be difficult anytime, but it's even harder during the holidays. This week, my post focuses on ways you can take care of yourself while managing the season's craziness. I posted 30-tips to help you make it through New Year's a couple of weeks ago and over the next month I'm breaking it down by topic. Last week’s post provided tips on keeping you organized and your life under control to help you reduce stress and anxiety during the holidays and this week is all about taking care of yourself.
Practice mindfulness
When stress overwhelms you, the sights, sounds, smells, tastes and sensations of the season and the holidays can be soothing. I know that frantic shoppers might not seem very calming, but if you take a deep breath and pay full attention to your senses, your body can relax and you might find something to appreciate in all of the craziness.
Allow feelings, even the icky ones
Let yourself feel your feelings, and know they, too, will pass.
Take time to enjoy the holiday
If we’re caught up in all that needs to be done, we forget why we’re celebrating.
Get a good night’s sleep
A good night's sleep reduces stress, is good for your body, and does wonders for your outlook on the day.
Eat healthy
Your body will thank you. Eating junk food can make you feel lethargic, bloated and uncomfortable.
Take time each day for self-care
Self-care can be as easy as reading for pleasure or taking a walk, just spend some time doing things that nourish your spirit.
Find time to relax
Calming your mind and body can help recharge you for the next task or challenge.
Fit exercise into your to-do list
Burning off that excess energy and stress does wonders for anxiety.
Check in with yourself
When stress and anxiety hits ask yourself, “What do I need in this moment?” and pay attention to those needs. If your body is screaming at you to take a break and relax, then do it!
I hope you have a happy holiday, but sometimes, no matter how much you try to take care of yourself, you still end up feeling overwhelmed, stressed, depressed or anxious. If you’re struggling this holiday season, know that you’re not alone. The holidays can be a very difficult time and therapy can help you talk about what’s bothering you, grieve for those you’ve lost or help you to process the difficult life experiences that keep you from moving forward.
If you're wondering whether counseling is for you and you would like to talk about it please reach out.
Elizabeth Cush, MA, LCPC is a therapist in Annapolis helping adults manage their stress and anxiety. She owns and operates Progression Counseling — 410-330-1979.
If you'd like more self-care tips during the holidays check out Laura Reagan's LCSW Therapy Chat Podcast episode #61.
Photos courtesy of Samilla Maioli and Kash Goudarzi for Unsplash.com.
