Peace On Earth Begins with You

The holiday season can be an especially difficult time of year for those who have faced the loss of loved ones, experienced isolation and trauma. When much of the world is buying gifts, singing carols and full of the Christmas spirit, it is common for others to struggle to find solace in possibly spending time alone.

 

In the midst of any feelings of loneliness and pain, there are ways to bring light to the season that focuses on family and togetherness.

 

Enjoy the freedom to decorate your home to suit your taste, prepare or have your favorite meals catered, turn on your best playlist and dance the night away, watch your favorite movies either alone or with a friend/friends, do what makes your days brighter.

 

Here are a few easy adult self-care tips that should add smiles and help you make new memories by yourself or with others:

 

Be honest about how you feel.

Even though the holiday season is a joyous occasion, don’t internalize your feelings and isolate yourself deeper. Be honest with yourself and others around you. Be sure to find someone who can offer a safe place for you to share your feelings.

 

It’s OK to get out of your comfort zone.

I know, I know. When you don’t feel like going to yet another holiday party, it can really do your heart good to be with others, even if they are unfamiliar to you, to laugh and enjoy good food. Go on. Get out of your comfort zone and possibly make new friends.

 

Plan to face holiday triggers.

If there are traumatic experiences that you associate with the holiday season, be mentally – and even physically – prepared to face them. If there is a song that reminds you of a loved one that may have passed, find a way to redirect your feelings or thoughts to make a sad memory a happy one.

 

Take a holiday self-care walk

Go outside and take a walk. Bundle up if it’s cold and head out with the intention of noticing the magic. Don’t worry about burning calories or tracking steps, just enjoy yourself. Walk for ten minutes or an hour. Moving your body within your ability and within your time and energy availability is an amazing way to listen to your body and take care.

 

Respect your budget.

Once you figure out what you can or want to spend on extras like holiday gifts, events, and other holiday things, honor that. If you splurge now, you pay even more later. Instead of overspending, focus on simple pleasures that don’t cost much. Do the loud budgeting things to encourage friends and family to respect their budgets too.

 

Volunteer to Help Others Less Fortunate

 

Tips to ease holiday anxiety for teens:

 

Manage Expectations. 

Avoid putting excessive pressure on your teen and yourself to create the "perfect" holiday experience. Remind yourself and your teen to be kind to yourself and focus on creating meaningful moments rather than striving for perfection.

 

Practice Self-Care.

Help your teenager engage in activities that promote relaxation and well-being, such as engaging in creative outlets, journaling, or hobbies that help them relax and unwind. Find winter Self-Care activities here.

 

Encourage Healthy Boundaries.

Help your teenager establish healthy boundaries during the holidays. This may include setting limits on social engagements or commitments or saying no to certain activities to prevent burnout.

 

Create Safe Spaces of Support.

Create a safe and open space for teens to express their feelings and concerns and validate their experiences throughout the year. Teenagers may also want to talk to trusted friends or family members.

 

Foster Meaningful Connections.

Encourage your teenager to engage in activities that foster meaningful connections with others. This could involve participating in community events, or reaching out to friends and loved ones to plan activities that promote healthy social connections. Find holiday events happening in Orlando this year here.

 

Volunteer to Help Others Less Fortunate

 

“I leave the gift of peace with you—my peace. Not the kind of fragile peace given by the world, but my perfect peace..." John 14:27

 

 

For more tips, please visit Prevention magazine and Starling Services here.

 

Check out Oprah Daily for more great ideas to liven up and have a merry holiday season:

 

 

Don’t Suffer in Silence, You’re Not Alone:

The Mental Health Hotline is a free, confidential 24-hour hotline for anyone struggling with depression, anxiety, or any mental health crisis, call 1-866-903-3787.

 

Confidential 24/7 Crisis Hotline: 407-500-HEAL

 

For an In-Person or Virtual Appointment Call: 407-254-9415 FREE Services Are Offered