A SEASON TO BREATH
Finding Peace and Self-Care Amid the Holiday Hustle
As the year draws to a close and the holiday season kicks into full swing, many of us are swept into the rhythms of festive preparations. Twinkling lights, gatherings, and a sense of expectation fill the air. But for some, the season brings not just joy but also a wave of complex emotions. The expectations we place on ourselves, whether hosting dinners, buying gifts, or managing family dynamics, can weigh heavily. Add in financial pressures, travel, or the memories of loved ones who may not be around this year, and it’s no wonder that the holidays can be an emotionally charged time.
At the heart of a peaceful holiday season is one essential act: remembering to breathe. Taking a breath—both literally and figuratively—can be a profound act of self-care. In the busyness and hustle, finding moments to pause and refocus can help us feel grounded, which is key to managing holiday stress.
Holiday Stress and Its Impact on Mental Health
For many, the holidays are a mix of joy and stress. It’s a time to be with family, but it can also mean navigating complex family relationships. It’s a time to give, yet that may lead to financial strain. We see the season portrayed as a time of magic and celebration, which can inadvertently amplify feelings of loneliness or inadequacy when our reality doesn’t match the vision. This combination can strain mental health, especially for those who are already dealing with anxiety, depression, or loss.
Acknowledging these feelings is an important first step. There’s no need to “be merry” every moment if that’s not how you feel. Give yourself permission to experience whatever emotions arise. Recognizing stress, sadness, or even anger without judgment can release some of the tension around those emotions.
Creating Space for Self-Care
As we move into the holiday season, it’s essential to carve out moments for self-care. Self-care, particularly during this time, doesn’t need to be elaborate. It can be as simple as taking a few minutes each day to pause, breathe, and check in with yourself. Ask, “How am I doing right now? What do I need?” These brief moments of introspection can help you understand what truly matters to you this season.
If you feel overwhelmed, consider setting boundaries around your time and energy. A “yes” to one thing is often a “no” to something else, so decide what brings you genuine joy and say yes to that. Scaling back doesn’t mean that you’re “missing out”—it means you’re choosing to focus on what aligns with your well-being. Maybe that’s one small gathering instead of several or choosing to bake a single favorite dessert instead of an entire spread.
Embracing Mindfulness and Rest
When the holiday season feels like it’s pulling you in every direction, practicing mindfulness can anchor you. Mindfulness helps you stay present in each moment, giving you a break from worries about the future or reflections on the past. Simple mindfulness practices, like a deep breathing exercise, a walk outside, or savoring a warm cup of tea, can help center you amid the holiday rush.
Remember to take breaks. Rest, whether through sleep, reading a book, or watching a favorite movie, allows you to recharge. Try not to see rest as an interruption but as a crucial piece of your well-being.
Finding Joy in Simplicity
Sometimes, it’s the simplest things that bring the most comfort. Watching snow fall, admiring holiday lights, or sharing a laugh with a friend can be grounding experiences. Instead of aiming for a perfect holiday, embrace an authentic one. This season, let go of what feels unnecessary and focus on what brings you peace.
The holiday season may be complex, but it can also be an opportunity to prioritize our mental health, practicing the self-care and compassion we often reserve for others. Taking time to pause, breathe, and reflect can help make the season not just a time of giving, but of receiving the care and calm we all deserve.