As I write this end of year blog, I'm reunited with family overseas who I haven't seen in 5 years due to the pandemic. My father will be turning 76 on Christmas day and it's wonderful that we are able to celebrate together and reunite with our family and friends. It's been a heartwarming experience and we're lucky to create new memories together.
Together with this sense of celebration, I'm aware that the holiday season can be tricky. Navigating family dynamics, financial worries can be elevated during this time, and some even experience a heightened level of social anxiety. Holiday stress is real!
If you are anticipating a level of overwhelm or stress during this time, here are some ways you can manage stress during this season and beyond:
1. Create Space for Self-Care: Allocate time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it's yoga, reading, taking a walk, or enjoying a warm or cold cuppa. Taking care of yourself is crucial during the holiday season.
2. Set Realistic Expectations. Don't Lose Sight of What Really Matters: Manage your expectations for holiday gatherings and commitments. Recognise that perfection isn't necessary, and it's okay to ask for help or scale back on non-essential tasks to reduce stress.
3. Create Boundaries: A difficult one but needed. Establish clear boundaries to protect your time and energy. Politely decline additional commitments if your schedule is overwhelming, and communicate openly with others about your limits to ensure a more balanced and enjoyable holiday experience.
4. Take a self- compassion break: Remember to bring a sense of gentle understanding to yourself when things don't go the way you hope for it to be. When a sense of overwhelm is felt, take a moment to pause and remember to breathe, and redirect that compassion you would extend to a dear friend to yourself.
What are some of the other ways you handle stress during this time?
Wishing you peace, joy and a sense of ease during this season. Be gentle with yourself and remember that you matter as well.
Keep an eye out for our upcoming urban retreat "Embracing Joy" on the 4th of February 2024. This mini-pause will be joy-filled. Instead of thinking about new year's resolution, we're exploring aspects beyond productivity and perfection and lean into aspects in life that brings you joy. This retreat will include 2 yoga practices, reflection time, meditation and snacks and tea. You can register your interest by emailing us at hello@breathingspacewellbeing.com.au. Spots will be limited.