Author: Krista Satchell, LMSW Counselor at Crossroads to Pathways Counseling
December 22, 2024
The holiday season can bring both joy and stress, particularly for individuals navigating
challenges like family dynamics, past trauma, or heightened responsibilities. Protecting your
peace during this time is essential. Here are some strategies tailored to promote well-being and resilience:
Set Realistic Expectations
Acknowledge that the "perfect holiday" is a myth. Focus on creating moments that matter to you and your loved ones.
Limit the pressure to meet everyone’s expectations and prioritize what aligns with your
values.
Establish Routines
Communicate clearly about your limits, such as how much time you can spend at
gatherings or what topics are off-limits in conversations (politics, religion etc.).
Give yourself permission to say “no” when a request feels overwhelming or unnecessary.
Make Self-Care a Priority
Schedule downtime to recharge. Whether it’s a walk, journaling, or simply a quiet
moment, these activities can help you stay grounded.
Maintain healthy habits- balanced nutrition, regular sleep, and physical activity are
foundational for resilience (go for a run, walk, get moving-something is better than
nothing).
Manage Stressors in Advance
Identify potential triggers and plan responses. For instance, if family dynamics are
challenging, think about strategies to defuse tension or step away if needed (You know
who I’m talking about- in laws, immediate family, friends, those individuals that know
how to push all the right buttons and send you over the edge- be proactive and get in front of that game!).
Create a financial plan for gift-giving or celebrations to avoid unnecessary stress.
Be Mindful of Over Stimulation
The holidays can be noisy, busy, and overwhelming. Plan moments of calm, whether
through meditation, quiet time, or simply stepping outside- fresh air serves the spirit well,
if you start to feel wound up like a top, find the door, make an exit and inhale that oxygen
deeply and exhale deeply the same until you feel centered again and those temporary
feelings have passed.
Finally, Lean on Your Support System
Reach out to friends, mentors, or a therapist (Rumor on the Gadsden beat is the therapists at Crossroads to Pathways Counseling are pretty phenomenal) if the season feels particularly heavy. Sometimes, an empathetic ear can make all the difference.
At Crossroads to Pathways Counseling, we want to wish you a Merry Christmas and may
your holiday season be healthy, safe, and filled with love, peace, and reflection of all the great
things that you accomplished in 2024, and all the even greater things you are capable of tackling in 2025. We look forward to accompanying you on that journey.
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