Taking care of your mental and emotional wellbeing through the holidays

While the holiday season is often associated with joy and connection, it can also bring about stress and emotional challenges.

While many people enjoy festive gatherings, others may feel isolated or lonely during Christmas, especially if they are away from family or are experiencing loss. The holiday season can also bring about increased stress and anxiety for various reasons such as financial pressures, family expectations, and increased busyness. A survey by the American Psychological Association (APA) in 2019 found that 38% of people reported an increase in stress during the holiday season. While the holidays often emphasize family togetherness, this can also be a time of increased tension in relationships. Conflicts, unmet expectations, and family dynamics can all contribute to emotional stress.

Prioritising your emotional wellbeing during this time is crucial for a more fulfilling and balanced experience.

Here are some practical strategies to help you navigate the holiday season with mindfulness and care for your mental and emotional wellbeing:

Set realistic expectations

High expectations can lead to disappointment and stress. Set realistic expectations for yourself and others during the holidays. Accept that not everything will go perfectly, and that's okay. Focus on the joy of the moment rather than aiming for perfection.

Create boundaries

Establishing emotional boundaries is vital for protecting your mental health. Be mindful of your energy levels and emotional capacity. Politely communicate your boundaries to friends and family, and don't hesitate to step away when you need time for yourself.

Acknowledge and Accept Feelings

Emotions can run high during the holidays, and that's completely normal. Acknowledge and accept your feelings without judgment. Whether you're experiencing joy, sadness, or stress, allow yourself the space to feel and express your emotions in a healthy way. Journalling and self-reflection, tapping and movement are all great ways to express emotions and reflect on how you are feeling.

Plan for Self-Care

Intentionally plan self-care activities throughout the holiday season. Schedule moments for relaxation, self-reflection, and activities that recharge your emotional batteries. Prioritising self-care is an investment in your overall wellbeing.

Spend time in nature

Get outdoors and spend some time in nature over the holiday season to reduce stress and promote feelings of wellbeing and calmness. This could be a walk in a local park or seeking out some local nature spots. Exposure to natural light, particularly sunlight, contributes to the production of serotonin and helps regulate the circadian rhythm, positively impacting mood and sleep patterns. 

Prioritise rest

Take time to rest, in whatever way works best for you. Release the pressure to be constantly busy, and allow yourself to just be. Rest is especially important at this time, as daylight diminishes, and the winter solstice marks the longest night of the year. At this time it becomes crucial to acknowledge the body's natural inclination for more rest and recuperation. Embracing this period for relaxation allows us to recharge our mental and emotional reserves, counteracting the potential stresses associated with holiday commitments. Adequate rest not only supports cognitive functions and mood regulation but also strengthens the immune system, promoting resilience during the colder months.

Practice Self-Compassion

Be kind to yourself. Practice self-compassion by treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer to a friend. Remember that it's okay to prioritise your own needs and take breaks when necessary.

Limit Stimuli and Screen Time

The holiday season often comes with a barrage of stimuli and increased screen time which can contribute to increased stress and anxiety. Be mindful of how much information you're consuming and consider taking breaks from social media. Limiting stimuli can help create a more peaceful and focused mental space.

Engage in Activities You Enjoy

Allocate time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it's reading a book, listening to music, taking a relaxing bath or pursuing a hobby, engaging in activities you enjoy contributes positively to your emotional wellbeing.

stay connected

While some socialising is inevitable during the holidays, make an effort to connect with loved ones in meaningful ways. Quality over quantity is key. Choose activities that foster genuine connections and prioritize spending time with those who uplift and support your emotional wellbeing. If you find yourself struggling emotionally, don't hesitate to seek support. Reach out to friends, family, or a mental health professional.

This holiday season, make a commitment to prioritise your mental and emotional wellbeing.

I hope these tips have helped and I wish you all the best for the festive season and end of 2023.

If you’d like to find out more about how I can help support you through my coaching services please feel free to get in touch or book a free discovery call.