How to survive the holiday season!

With Christmas right around the corner Mom and Dads everywhere are getting bombarded with Christmas list, Christmas plays, planning vacations, and doing everything for everyone else to make the holiday special. It's no wonder many people experience the holiday blues during this time. So to help you skate through this Christmas season, I wanted to give some easy ways to make it through without losing your mind.

1. Self Care ~ It's easy to forget about yourself when you're running around for gifts for your kids, in laws, and extended family trying to make their Christmas perfect. Instead of running yourself into the ground plan some time to yourself. Carve out sometime each week just for you. Whether that includes going to see a movie, taking yourself to dinner, or having time to read the book you want to catch up on, do something for you. It is so very important to still think of yourself despite wanting to make Christmas special for everyone, because no one can pour from an empty cup.

2. Avoid conflicts  ~ Being around family can cause a lot of our blood pressure to go WAY up! It's always hard to ignore the little digs your family might back, or the questions you aren't ready to answer yet. The best bet is to keep it positive. Avoid any sort of confrontation because honestly, it's just not the time for all of that. Enjoy the holidays as much as you can and if a family member really won't leave you be, walk away from the situation.

3. Give Back ~ The holidays are the perfect time to teach your children and family about giving. It's easy to forget that part of the holidays with all of the media screaming "buy this, buy that" at you. Some great places in Atlanta to give to are: Must Ministries, Make A Wish, and Open Hand Atlanta just to name a few. It's great to give back and you're guaranteed to feel even better after doing so!

4. Grieve those you have lost ~ Sadly many families every year spend Christmas mourning the loss of a loved one, or wishing they were there to enjoy the festivities. This year give yourself and your family space to discuss these feelings you might have about a loved one who has passed away. All emotions are valid and sharing them during this time might help the tough time a little easier. Don't be ashamed to let people see a more sensitive side to you as you work through tough emotions. Also, take care of yourself and mental health. Take some time out to journal, to meditate, or take a walk. These small things will help ease any stress or unwanted feelings you might have.


5. No binging! ~ I use to love the excuse of "it's the holidays" to stuff my face with pies, cookies, chips, you name it. I loved food and would use the holiday season as the perfect cop out to binge eat all day long. Instead moderate what you eat. Give yourself a reasonable boundary when it comes to holiday foods and workout through the holiday season. Not only will you feel better, but you won't have to beat yourself up about eating everything in sight.

My hope is that these quick tips will help you survive the holiday season without losing your mind! lol! Let me know your tips to surviving the holidays in the comments below. Have a great week and I'll chat with you soon!

-Patrice