Coping With Holiday Stress
As much joy as the holiday season brings, I often find it accompanied with holiday stress. In past years it’s been marked with red-eye flights, cancelled flights, long road trips and sitting in traffic, last minute shopping and gift wrapping, crowded kitchens, heightened family dynamics…why are these memories making me feel nostalgic and a sense of loss?
Yesterday the CDC warned Americans not to travel for the holidays. While I had already cancelled plans to travel for my annual family holiday celebration, spending this season away from everyone while the country witnesses the greatest surge in COVID-19 thus far (on top of the typical New England winter) has reminded me to be extra kind to myself. I hope all of you prioritize self-care as much as possible through this last month of 2020.
Below are some great tips while coping with holiday stress:
Do what’s best for you and your household. This may mean declining a friend’s invitation for a potluck or choosing to have a small, low-key celebration. It also means getting enough sleep, eating well, and staying active. Don’t underestimate the impact that taking time for yourself can have. I find it helps to spend time walking outside before the sun sets or chilling with a book, removing myself from any stressful distractions.
Respond with kindness. The holidays can be really hard for those who are alone or who may have lost a loved one. 2020 has not been a picnic and a lot of people are carrying that exhaustion and frustration. If someone makes a snarky comment or cuts in line, stay compassionate and respond with kindness.
Rethink your New Year’s resolutions. While it can be helpful to some to set aspirational goals, remember to start small, breaking your goals into smaller ones throughout 2021. January will continue to be a trying time given the projected COVID rates, and it’s important to remember to be kind to yourself.