Strategies for a More Relaxing Season

This time of year can bring with it a significant emotional load and, for many, heightened anxiety.

With the holiday season just around the corner, we find ourselves on the verge of a delightful yet occasionally overwhelming time of year. As the calendar inches closer to the holiday celebrations, the emotional load and heightened anxiety that sometimes accompany the season are on the horizon.

But I’m here to support you, and I’ve gathered some of my favorite strategies to help you relax and manage anxiety effectively so you can truly enjoy the holidays.

1. Plan and Prioritize: Begin by setting clear holiday goals and priorities. This helps avoid spreading yourself too thin.

2. Realistic Expectations: Understand that perfection isn't the objective. Be kind to yourself and accept that things may not always go according to plan.

3. Mindfulness Practices: Incorporate mindfulness exercises to stay in the present moment and reduce worry about past or future events. Meditation and deep breathing are excellent options.

4. Set Boundaries: Learn to gracefully decline commitments when necessary. Don't overcommit to social events or tasks that could become overwhelming.

5. Delegation: Share holiday responsibilities with family or friends whenever possible. Sharing the load can ease stress.

6. Stay Connected: Continue nurturing your social connections. Additionally, open up about your feelings with friends and family if you're feeling overwhelmed. They may offer support or alternative solutions.

7. Self-Care: Dedicate time to activities that bring relaxation, whether it's reading, indulging in a warm bath, or engaging in a favorite pastime.

8. Professional Assistance: Should anxiety become unmanageable, don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional. Therapy and counseling can provide essential tools for coping with holiday-related stress.

These strategies will help you embrace the season with more ease, allowing you to fully enjoy the moments that matter most.

While October is here, the holiday spirit is already in the air for many, and it's the perfect time to start preparing for a relaxing and harmonious holiday season.

Seasonal Depression, Stigma Reduction, and Mental Health Awareness

I recently had the pleasure of discussing the nuances of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), its potential causes, and practical strategies for combating it for ESSENCE. This feature aligned with World Mental Health Day, reinforcing the significance of recognizing and addressing mental health challenges.

If you feel like learning more about this topic, feel free to check it out.

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