It’s going to be one hell of a holiday season, and a more stressful one than usual. Just preparing you, trust me. You know those conversations around the Thanksgiving table, the ones that include the latest gossip within the family and the most recent current events? Well this year was quite a doozy, so imagine what the conversation is going to be like while passing the potatoes. Uggh.
Let’s look at the facts. You got the World Series, which astounded fans around the world with a surprise win by the Cubs, you got the strange election results and then there’s the oddball Weather-It was 80 degrees today in my neck of the woods.
But there’s a good side to it as well. It’s easier than you think to peel away stress from the holidays. I should know because generally, I am a bundle of stress even on ordinary days. By the time holidays roll around, I make sure I have wine, take plenty of hot baths and sleep randomly. And why is that? I have had to make coping mechanisms to keep from going insane. It’s not that hard, really. You can do the same thing as well!
Pay attention! I will try and be short and sweet so you can finish up those Thanksgiving preparations.
- Do not isolate yourself from your family and friends. I know this will be tempting and I know family can be highly irritating, but isolation will only add to the stress when you are forced to make an appearance, and let’s face it, you will have to come out of hiding eventually.
- Take time to remember those who are not able to enjoy the holidays or those who are no longer with us. This doesn’t mean spiraling into depression. It’s just about reverence. Light a candle, say a prayer and then get back to festivities. This will help you detoxify your emotions and find a bit more energy to deal with trivial issues of the holidays.
- Alcohol and addictive substances will be tempting, especially when dealing with loss in the family. Try to avoid overdoing alcohol consumption and focus on drinking moderate amounts. Drinking too much can lead to activities or actions you may regret later on. Drink water instead to stay hydrated while tackling those holiday chores and events.
- Take advantage of every sunny day during the holidays. This will recharge your vitamin D level and prevent onset of depression or overall gloom. When the weather is gloomy, listen to uplifting music to combat the darkness.
- Forgive yourself easily. If some activity triggers negative emotions, do not be afraid to excuse yourself from participation. It doesn’t matter what others think as long as you are trying your best to keep your head above water. Do what you need to do for you and push through any triggers for emotional breakdown.
The holidays are coming and you cannot stop them. It’s just like the election, events will happen and stress will come. The good news is you don’t have to fall apart. Take your time, refuse to let anyone pressure you into feeling stressed. Yes, some people will do that. Instead of falling for the triggers, make a plan of action that includes some of these stress relieving tips. And yes, you can borrow my suggestion for a nice hot bath, even if it’s sort of a cliché for relaxation. Most importantly, enjoy the holidays and don’t let anyone steal your joy.
Happy Thanksgiving!
By Sherrie Lee Hurd, Truth Inside Of You
