The holidays can be a wonderful time of year. We spend time with loved ones and enjoy all the festive activities to choose from during this time of year. However, we understand at Allow Health that the holidays can also be a challenging time of year for many reasons. The purpose of this post is to focus on ways in which you can prioritize your own mental health during a time of year when we are expected to give, give, and give!
Setting Boundaries and Knowing Limits - It can be helpful
to know and understand your limits when it comes to social interaction. This time of year, it can be filled with many fun activities; ice skating, tree lightings, parties, and holiday markets to name a few. We may feel like we need to do everything and take advantage of ‘the most wonderful time of year’. But, attending all of the events on our to-do list can be incredibly draining. Make sure you are checking in with yourself and taking the breaks you need. Sitting on the couch with a cup of hot cocoa counts as a holiday activity too 😊. When setting boundaries during the holidays, focus on quality over quantity. Prioritizing those meaningful moments with loved ones can be so i important and beneficial to our overall health.
Self-Care Practices - What a great time of year to start practicing daily self-care! The holidays can be hectic. Taking time of the day for yourself, whether that be an hour or 10 minutes, can help center and ground yourself. Meditation, exercise, reading your favorite book, or even watching your favorite holiday movie are great examples of finding that self-care throughout the day.
Avoiding Triggers -There can often be triggering experiences during the holiday season. Whether we are mourning a lost family member or friend or struggling through a difficult relationship with a loved one, these experiences can cause much anxiety as we lead into this time of year. You are valid in taking the time you need to process difficult memories or relationships. If you find certain activities during this time are too triggering for you, it may be best to replace those experiences with emotionally fulfilling ones. If this time of year is hard for you, identify a trusting friend or family member that you feel you can go to when you need.
Everyone at Allow Health wants to wish you a wonderful holiday season, and I hope this post helps you identify ways in which you can prioritize yourself during this time. Happy Holidays!!
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