Q: With the Holiday season among us, can you please share some tips to stay healthy and not get caught up in drama?
A: Holidays are notorious for bringing up family issues and unresolved grief, resentment, and frustration around family and tradition. Yet it is also a time for celebration and joy. The best way to stay healthy is to be present and set healthy boundaries, For example, make it a point not to discuss politics especially if there is opposition in the family.
Try to keep it simple without deep issues arising. You may want to start some new rituals, yes it’s okay not to follow old family traditions. Here are a few simple tips to keep it simple:
- Be sure to express gratitude for what you are grateful for; i.e., health, friends, family, loved ones, and the ability to give. It feels good to be grateful for what you do have rather than focus on what you don’t have.
- Take time to help others that are not as fortunate. Look at what is going on in your community and offer some of your time to volunteer and offer your services. This is so needed not just at holiday time but year-round.
- Cultivate plenty of self-love and time for you. Holidays can be overwhelming and it’s important you give yourself a break. If the weather is pleasant, go for a walk after your holiday meal and get some fresh air. You don’t have to spend every minute with your family. You might want to plan ahead what you want to eat and say to others.
- Be willing to forgive and let go of resentment. You can tell yourself that it’s possible to let go of the small stuff and honor others during holiday time. We are all human and we need to recognize we are not perfect. Let go and enjoy it.
- Make it a point to create what works for you and make the necessary sacrifices you need to in order to get along with those whom you will be with this holiday season.