The festive season can be stressful at the best of times. In this unique year, you may be noticing that your stress levels are amplified. You may feel anxious because your holiday plans may look different this year.
Here are some practical tips to manage your wellbeing and navigate the 2020 holiday season.
1- Acknowledge That This Year Is Unique
Allow yourself to accept that this year may not look the way you hoped. There is still room for joy if you choose to let it in.
2- Plan Ahead
Consider whether you can shop online. Plan your menus and make a shopping list. That will prevent last-minute scrambling.
If you can’t be with your loved ones, it is normal to feel sadness and grief. Take time to express your feelings and don’t force yourself to be happy.
It may not come from hosting the perfect spread this year. Take time to notice the beauty of the season. Thinking about small blessings can bring heartfelt delight.
You want to be in tip-top shape to keep your immune system strong during the pandemic. It will also help you ward off symptoms of seasonal depression.
6- Don’t Lose Sight of What Really Matters
Connect with people with a compliment or kind gesture. Take inventory of the good things that happen. Look around with fresh eyes and an open mind.
Stop putting so much pressure on yourself. It’s okay to feel stressed and burnt-out. It’s absolutely okay to feel angry and disappointed as well.
With a little planning and some positive thinking, you can find peace and joy during these holidays.
If you find yourself struggling with the stress of the times and these tips are difficult for you, it may be a sign that you could utilize the help of a mental health professional.
Do you need help? Call (510) 497-4174 to schedule your free consultation with one of our stress therapists today.
This post was written by Lani Gouws on behalf of The Bridge Therapy Center. If you have any questions or require more information, please contact Lani here: lani@bridgecentertherapy.com