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While many folks enjoy the holidays others, (like myself ) find the holiday season extremely stressful and difficult. This week we'll look at the seasons top stress busters compliments of Meghan Reitz and Associates in Schaumburg!
The holidays are a time when many families spend more time together than normal which is something many look forward to. But it can also bring out irritations and frustrations especially if you spend this time with relatives you normally are unable to see or even avoid the rest of the year.
HOW TO COPE: Remind yourself in the knowledge that this family togetherness will come to an end. Try to find something good in the war stories and reminscing and try not to get pulled down into "old" stuff!
Remembering the ones we've lost
The holidays can be a big trigger when grieving the loss of a loved one. It often becomes more “real” during the holidays that your loved one is no longer physically with you. This becomes particularly true when it is the first holiday without this person.
HOW TO COPE: It's OK. We all grieve in different ways. Try to share moments of happiness or humor with your family and friends. Remember funny stories of the person or great accomplishments. Honor them in the way you know best and lean on those around you for support. |
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Holiday Let Down
Do you ever feel that things “should” be a certain way during the holidays? Breaking from traditions or experiencing a holiday that doesn't match up with your visions often leads to disappointment. Your high expectations for the holidays can lead to a let down when things just don't work out the way you wanted or expected.
HOW TO COPE: Grounding to the rescue again! Think about the things that you find truly important and meaningful about the holiday. These are usually easily attainable things that will help you better set your expectations. Maybe your parents are fighting or the turkey you made is too dry. At least you have your family there and something to eat. If there is no silver lining you can come up with… make one! Do a kind gesture for a neighbor you barely know or donate food or money to a charity to make sure you get your needs for a successful holiday met by helping others. |
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Finances
During the holidays, your wallet often takes a hit. It is an expensive time of year with all the gifts, parties, food, and travel. If finances are something you already have concerns about, the holidays can increase the pressure.
HOW TO COPE: Reduce your obligations and think outside the box for low cost, meaningful gifts. It is also okay to admit financial issues to family or friends if you are comfortable with sharing that information. The holiday season isn't about going into debt. You might be surprised by how supportive others can be if you are open and honest about it. Also, consider a “no-gift” holiday where the focus is more on the time spent together in the spirit of the holiday. Be upfront about your financial ability to travel as well. With new technologies like FaceTime, you can often connect virtually to family and friends afar, which should be the focus of the holiday either way. |
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Overwhelming Holiday Obligations
Everyone's schedule gets jam packed around the holidays with cookie exchanges, work functions, school performances, shopping, cooking and visiting with friends and family. It can be very overwhelming! Needing to be somewhere, remembering to do something and interacting with others can take a lot out of you both physically and emotionally. There can also be added exhaustion from the over indulgence in sweets and alcohol as well as those late nights.
HOW TO COPE: Say “No”. It's hard to say no to holiday events and requests, but by not obligating yourself to everything everyone asks of you, you will be taking the first step to self-care. When you can't say no or don't want to, then it is important to practice some mindfulness techniques to keep everything in perspective and positive. Think about the joy you're bringing to those around you as well as look forward to the feeling of success you will have when you complete these tasks. For each thing you take on, let it be the only one in your mind, keep yourself focused on that task and the good that your obligatory task is bringing you or others. When all else fails… just breathe. A few minutes of calming breathing or meditation a few times a day can push the holiday crazy away and let you focus on successfully accomplishing your Holiday activities.
With some attention, consciousness and planning alot of stressors can be managed very well freeing you to experience all the JOY of the season.
Visit our STRESS aisle for other major helpers!
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