Happy holidays: Tips to make this season more joyous
My favorite Christmas memories are the Christmas Eves spent at my grandmother’s house surrounded by family. Was it the anticipation? Playing with all my cousins? The ice-cream Santa Clauses? The presents? Uncle Ted playing Elvis on the guitar? Maybe it was just the simplicity of it all.
Though I do not have fond memories of all past holidays, I have put more tools in my toolbox for getting through the holidays with joy, and as with everything else, I do the best I can. While friends and family can be supportive during the holidays, they can also be a huge source of stress. I cannot change how others act during the stress of the holiday season, but I can change how I choose to respond; I can choose kindness and a smile most of the time.
Here are a few of tips and coping strategies for getting through the holidays.
Do not be a perfectionist. While you may want everything to be perfect, things are what they are, and most likely no one will notice. Don’t sweat the small things, and don’t criticize yourself. Remember the reason for the season.
Maintain healthy habits. While I do like to indulge in sweets and eggnog, it is important to make healthy choices, and this includes alcohol. Of course, there will be days when you will slip, but don’t beat yourself up about it. Just do better the next day. Refrain from alcohol and if you are going to drink at holiday parties, it’s important to have a designated driver.
Exercise. While it may be cold and windy outdoors, exercising is important. There are many exercise videos on YouTube that cover everything from dancing, low impact exercise, those for which there is no equipment necessary, stretching for seniors, chair exercises, Zumba, beginner workouts, yoga — the list is almost endless. Of course, you can always put on some dance music and clean the house. I find a winter walk exhilarating, and the burst of sunshine is a happiness booster.
Make time for yourself. It is critical to learn to say no and to make time for yourself. The act of giving gets so much attention during the holidays that it can be easy to forget to give back to yourself. Try taking an Epsom salt bath or booking a much-needed massage. Taking care of yourself (self-care) is a wonderful investment and can help make it easier for you to take care of others. Set aside some time to do things you enjoy. Find time to exercise, plan time with an old friend and get outside.
Sleep. Getting enough sleep is not only important but critical. While your holiday schedule may keep you up later than usual, try your best not to let yourself become exhausted.
Relax. Take the time to create a relaxing atmosphere by turning off the news and listening to some classical music and lighting some candles. Try some breathwork, inhaling and exhaling through your nose with a relaxed jaw. Lengthening your exhalations activates your parasympathetic nervous system slowing your heart and breathing rates, lowering blood pressure, and promoting healthy digestion.
Play and have fun. I love being around kids at Christmas and tuning into their delight and enthusiasm. While that is not always possible, let yourself be open to experiencing joy. Happiness is contagious. If you are happy, most likely you increase the odds of those around you being happy. Awaken the joy within you.
Honor the ones you have lost. While it may be difficult to celebrate the holiday season if you’ve lost someone dear to you, spend some time reflecting on the special memories of the lost loved one. Maybe create a makeshift altar with their pictures and few mementos. Perhaps consider doing something meaningful in their honor like planting a tree or volunteering your time to a local organization where your smiling face just may brighten someone else’s day.
Reach out/volunteer. The holidays are a perfect time to open your house to others, pick up the phone to check on someone’s well-being, or spend some time giving back to the community in some form or fashion.
Embrace every day. Stay present in the moment, surround yourself with people who make you feel good, practice mindful breathing, and have an attitude of gratitude. If you do only these few things, you’ll be able to sit back, relax, and let the joy come in.
I love to hear from my readers tell feel free to share your thoughts with me: ashton@ashtoncannon.com.
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Ashton Graham is an educator, book publisher, photographer, cowgirl and yoga teacher. She is currently studying to become a yoga therapist and lives on a ranch in West Texas. Visit www.ashtoncannon.com to learn more.
This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Maintaining Balance: Tips to make this season more joyous
