How to (more than just) Survive the Holiday Season!

Gorgeous winter days

The winter holiday season can be a time of real joy but also of stress and at times heartbreak. For me it’s a mixture of the joy and heartbreak. Living on the other side of the world from my family it is a time when I really feel that distance. On the other hand I really appreciate the friendships I have, the beautiful people around me and of course my own little family. 

For many though, planning for the upcoming holiday can be like taking on a part time job on top of everything else! Spending time with family can also have it’s own stresses. Past grievances can come up and of course at times with our parents we can revert back to our childhood selves – which is not always our best selves! We may feel pressure to spend money we don’t have on gifts, or host events –our routine may be disrupted and we can be left feeling ungrounded and a bit all over the place. 

How can we enjoy the sweetness of the season but manage the stress?

Being aware of our expectations and judgment that can come up, particularly around this time of year, can be helpful. If we can let go of the idea of a perfect holiday, be open to possibilities without expectation we can just enjoy the beauty of the season. We can really allow ourselves to appreciate the unique moments as they unfold. 

Allowing ourselves to actually be present means we take notice of the world around us. What we are seeing, what we can smell, what we are touching, the feelings that come up, –we are being in the experience fully.

When you notice something beautiful, something that makes you smile such as a piece of music or festive lights, really stop and allow yourself to be fully present. It really is little things that can bring such joy. 

Resist the urge to rush from one thing to the next without awareness.. Sometimes these ‘in-between’ moments can actually be profound. Savor those moments such as standing in a queue for instance, as a moment to catch your breath, and take note of what you are feeling. 

When you are in the midst of a holiday activity, whether it’s planning, cooking, or buying a gift, take a moment--feel your feet on the ground, the breath in your lungs, and focus on the task at hand. Remind yourself of what it really is all about. Then be in that moment. When you are choosing a gift, stop and think of that person and their qualities.

Another way to keep from being overwhelmed is to not be afraid to say "no". Most people are so tied up in their own busy-ness that they won’t be too bothered by your saying "no" and it might just be what you need to stay on track. 

Taking time out from the crazy to have time for yourself can also help you to stay restored. 

Enjoy the wonderful bits and try to let go of the rest. Nothing is permanent. 

I wish you all the very best for the season! 

Love Brogan