Helping News December, 2008 Issue 5
Holiday Make Over vs. Holiday Blues
Spending, preparing, decorating, eating, drinking, partying, and telling yourself you must do it all! The holiday season often sets up many of us for disappoinment, exhaustion and even depression with the sense that it just isn't that meaningful. If
not careful, we can
easily find ourselves
swept up the frantic
holiday pace that can
leave us emotionally,
physically, and
spiritually emptied.
The season often
passes us by without
us taking time to
make it memorable.
It's important to
tune in, and make time
to create moments
that will serve our
future memories,
and bring meaning
back to this season.
Try these suggestions for the Season:
* Make realistic expectations, and set objectives for the holiday season. For example, consider your obligations to regular routines, work, and good health habits before running off to accomplish an extra holiday task.
* Don't take on more responsibilities than you can handle, in other words, adhere to a manageable pace and give yourself time to reflect on your energy level.
* Prioritize the important activities. This can help make holiday tasks more manageable. Be honest with yourself and others about what you can and can't do.
* Spread your holiday energy in small doses through moments and events, instead of all in one day.
* Enjoy these moments, pay attention and find the
good things.
* Seek out activities that are fun and free, like sled
riding, building a snowman, or looking at holiday
lights. * Remember the past, but don't compare with the present. * Help someone, or reach out to an old friend.
* Try celebrating the holidays in a new way, make a new friend, volunteer.
* Set aside time for yourself!
* Allow others to share in the responsibilities of completing holiday tasks.
* And... keep track of holiday spending. Overspending can lead to anxiety and depression when the bills arrive in January.
More information coming...
