Managing Triggers, Prioritising Self-Care, and Navigating Holiday Emotions
In Part 1, we discussed the importance of setting boundaries and managing expectations during the festive season. Now, let’s dive deeper into three additional strategies to help you handle holiday triggers, prioritise self-care, and manage the emotional highs and lows that often accompany this time of year.
1. Recognise and Manage Holiday Triggers
The holidays can stir up a range of emotions, from joy to sadness, and even anxiety. Certain situations—like family conflicts, financial stress, or grief—can amplify these feelings.
Identify your triggers: Reflect on past holiday seasons to pinpoint what causes stress or discomfort. Awareness is the first step toward managing them.
Have a plan: Prepare responses or coping strategies in advance. For example, if a family member tends to ask uncomfortable questions, practice a polite but firm way to redirect the conversation.
Give yourself permission to step away: If a situation becomes overwhelming, take a break. A quick walk, some deep breathing, or even a moment of solitude can help you reset.
2. Prioritise Self-Care
Self-care often takes a backseat during the holiday hustle, but it’s crucial for maintaining balance.
Stick to your routines: As much as possible, maintain regular sleep, exercise, and eating habits to avoid burnout.
Schedule “me time”: Block out time for activities that recharge you, whether it’s a relaxing bath, a favourite hobby, or simply sitting in silence.
Limit alcohol and caffeine: While tempting, these can exacerbate stress and affect sleep. Opt for water or soothing teas instead.
Practice mindfulness: Use techniques like meditation, journaling, or gratitude exercises to stay grounded and present.
3. Navigate Emotional Highs and Lows
The holidays can bring joy, but they can also highlight what’s missing—whether it’s a loved one, a relationship, or even a sense of purpose.
Acknowledge your feelings: It’s okay to feel sadness, grief, or loneliness amidst the celebrations. Give yourself permission to process these emotions without judgment.
Reach out for support: Connect with a trusted friend, family member, or therapist if you’re struggling. Sharing your feelings can be incredibly relieving.
Focus on what you can control: While you can’t change the past or predict every outcome, you can choose how to respond at the moment. Shift your focus to the aspects of the season that bring you comfort or joy.
The festive season is a mix of light and shadow, joy and challenge. By preparing for triggers, prioritising self-care, and navigating emotions with intention, you can create a holiday experience that feels more balanced and fulfilling.
Remember: It’s okay to rewrite the script for the holidays to suit your needs and mental health. This season is just one chapter in the story of your life—make it one that feels right for you.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this post! If you found it helpful, I’d be incredibly grateful if you’d consider sharing it with others—it’s a small gesture that means a lot. Thank you for being here!
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With gratitude,
Lavinia
Therapist & Life Coach
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