Mindfully Merry: Navigating Mental Wellness Through the Holiday Season
It's normal to feel stressed during the holiday season, and you're not alone. To help you stay on track, here are some tips for maintaining good mental health during this holiday season.
Check-in with yourself and listen to your body. If you need a break, take it.
We often forget to take a step back and tune in to our own needs. It's important to remember that our bodies are not machines and need rest to function at their best. So, if you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or exhausted, don't hesitate to take a break. Whether it's a short walk outside, a few minutes of deep breathing, or a full day off, giving yourself the time and space to recharge can make a world of difference. Remember, taking care of yourself is not a luxury, it's a necessity.
Create (and stick to) a plan.
This may be scheduling what events you will attend and if you will travel. Remember, the holiday season is about creating happy memories and prioritizing what truly brings you joy. By creating a plan, setting a budget, and taking care of yourself, you can make the most of the holiday season. So, if attending a holiday party will bring you overwhelmingly more stress than it will joy, it’s okay to skip it!
Create a budget.
The holiday season brings on a ton of stress on its own. Creating a budget and sticking to it will allow you to experience the holidays with more ease. Be sure to consider how much money you have available to spend, and be realistic about what you can afford. Gift-giving can be a fun pastime, but not at the expense of your own cost of living.
Incorporate movement.
During the colder months, it can be harder to stay on an exercise routine, but getting your body moving is so important. Whether you enjoy a group fitness class or are passionate about getting your daily steps in, incorporating movement may be able to give you the break from the holiday stress you need. No matter how you choose to incorporate movement into your routine, remember that any amount of exercise is better than none. So, don't be too hard on yourself if you miss a workout or two. Just keep moving, stay consistent, and enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle even during the holidays!
Get enough sleep.
With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it can be easy to overlook the importance of a good night's sleep. However, getting enough rest is vital to your overall well-being. Research shows that lack of sleep can have a significant impact on your mental health. It can lead to increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Getting enough sleep can help improve your mood and reduce feelings of irritability and fatigue. During the holiday season, it's important to make sleep a priority. Set a regular sleep schedule and stick to it as best as you can.
Stay connected to loved ones.
A lot of people experience loneliness throughout the holidays. This may be due to being single, having difficult relationships with family, being unable to visit family, or just feeling disconnected or off. If you’re experiencing loneliness, try to stay connected to at least one person throughout this season. Ultimately, remember that you are not alone in feeling lonely during the holidays. Many people experience similar feelings, and it's important to be kind to yourself and practice self-care during this time. Try to focus on activities that bring you joy and fulfillment, and don't hesitate to reach out for support if you need it.
Give back.
Giving back to others benefits you as well. Whether this is a random act of kindness toward a stranger or volunteering in the community, studies have shown that giving back helps lower stress, plus it provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment. It can also familiarize you and connect you with your community and positively impact your perspective.
Remember, the holiday season is a time for joy, gratitude, and celebration. However, it can also be a time of stress and anxiety. By taking care of yourself, setting realistic expectations, and staying connected to loved ones, you can navigate the holiday season with ease and enjoy all that it has to offer. Remember to prioritize your mental health, stay true to yourself, and have fun!
