Hi Friends! One thing I know is that the Holiday blues are a real thing. As much as I love the Holiday season, I too still get in a little funk. It’s important to know that this is normal, and emotions can come in like waves, just know you’re not alone. I also tend to carry the burden of others who may find this season a very dark time, just know that I think and pray for those often and hard.
My good friend, Paul Calcote invited me to be a guest on his podcast and we talked about 7 ways to beat the Holiday blues. You can subscribe to his podcast, Real People, Real Talk wherever you download and listen to your podcasts (and leave a review too)! You can check out the podcast here. I also wanted to share the 7 tips we talked about with you below.
7 Ways to Beat the Holiday Blues!
- Start a New Tradition – what tradition can you start this year? It may look like trying a handful of things and figure out what will stick and whatever brings you the most joy. Repeat the next year and so forth.
- The Basics: Sunlight, rest, and exercise – with the days becoming even shorter, take advantage of trying to get out and enjoy some sunshine. Take days off and get some rest or do something you enjoy. Don’t forget to practice self-care. Be intentional in your movement as well. Enjoy a brisk walk outdoors or find a fun exercise video on YouTube.
- Find a Way To Giveback – Play secret Santa for a stranger or for a family need. Don’t feel the need to broadcast every little thing you do that will take the fun out of being a secret Santa. This year has been hard for all – let’s try to put smiles on faces, and it will put a smile on your face too!
- Cheer on Your Essential Worker Friends – This is very unique to 2020 as we all know the weight this year has brought. Send virtual giftcards to your friends and family who work in the healthcare field and cheer them! Let them know how much you see them, value them, and love them!
- Don’t Over Extend Yourself – It’s easy to say yes to all the things, but remember you’re human and you have to take care of yourself too. It’s okay to say “no” or “maybe later” without feeling guilty of doing so. Simplify if you can because the Holidays should be filled with excitement and anticipation, not a time you’re dreading. Set your boundaries and stick to them.
- Do All of Your Favorite Things – Be intentional in finding joy even in the little things. Create a grateful list or a journal filled with things that make you happy. Go see the Christmas lights and watch all the Christmas movies. Make all the memories and start new ones too!
- Stay Close to God – Let’s not forget the true reason of the season, the birth of our Savior. Make sure you’re carving out time to sit still and sit in His presence. Read the bible, make notes on what you read and pray. Pray for those who are hurting or having a difficult time in this season. Pray for peace and contentment in the days to come.
Paul and I hope you can find comfort or inspiration in these 7 Ways of Beating the Holiday Blues! Feel free to share this post with a friend or family member, and if you have a tip that you find helpful place it in the comments so that others can be inspired by you!
Wishing you and yours a beautiful and magical Holiday season!
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