From Bedford Youth & Family Services:
Bedford Youth & Family Services offers this list of tips to minimize stress around the holidays as well as some holiday affirmations:
1. Gift of Presence:
- Prioritize spending time with loved ones instead of overly elaborate gifts.
- Consider giving experiences or homemade gifts that hold sentimental value.
2. Prioritize Self-Care:
- Set aside time for yourself each day to relax and recharge.
- Practice mindfulness through activities such as meditation or deep breathing.
3. Set Realistic Expectations:
- Manage your expectations for the holiday season to avoid unnecessary stress.
- Focus on creating meaningful experiences rather than perfection.
4. Create Boundaries:
- Learn to say no when necessary to avoid overcommitting.
- Set boundaries around work and social obligations to maintain a healthy balance.
5. Connect with Loved Ones:
- Spend quality time with family and friends, emphasizing connections over material aspects.
- Foster positive relationships and support systems.
6. Plan Ahead:
- Organize and plan holiday activities and shopping in advance to reduce last-minute stress.
- Create a schedule to help manage your time effectively.
7. Practice Gratitude:
- Reflect on the positive aspects of your life and express gratitude daily.
- Keep a gratitude journal to focus on the good things, even during busy times.
8. Delegate Responsibilities:
- Share the workload with family members or friends when it comes to holiday preparations.
- Don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed.
9. Embrace Imperfections:
- Accept that not everything will go as planned, and that’s okay.
- Embrace imperfections and find joy in the moment.
10. Reflect and Reassess:
- Take time to reflect on the year, acknowledging achievements and lessons learned.
- Set realistic goals for the upcoming year, considering your overall well-being.
11. Stay Active:
- Incorporate physical activity into your routine, whether it’s a short walk, a workout, or yoga.
- Plan active outings with family and friends, such as hiking or playing sports.
12. Balanced Nutrition:
- Enjoy holiday treats in moderation and focus on a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
- Listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues to avoid overeating.
- Stay hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day.
13. Get Quality Sleep:
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule to ensure you get enough rest.
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine to promote better sleep quality.
14. Limit Alcohol Consumption:
- If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation and alternate with water to stay hydrated.
- Be mindful of the impact of alcohol on your well-being and mood.
Remember, the holiday season is about joy, connection, and gratitude. By incorporating these tips, you can create a healthier and more enjoyable holiday experience for yourself and those around you.
Holiday Affirmations:
These are shared courtesy of For Our Friends, a Facebook group designed to provide support to all those affected by mental illness.
- I am thankful for today
- I am grateful for the joy and love that this day has to offer
- My heart is grateful and my mind is at peace
- I am full of positive, loving energy
- I radiate joy, gratitude, and peace
- Today, I will be present in every moment
- I pledge to offer my best self today
- I am in charge of how I feel and I choose joy
- I find joy in this present moment
- I will embrace this day as a beautiful opportunity to give and receive love
- As I move through this day, I desire to spread my light with me wherever I go
- I move through this day with grace and ease
- I have the power to make this a beautiful day
- I effortlessly walk through this day in love and light
- Today is a beautiful gift, and I pledge to be present and live fully in each moment
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