The holiday season is here & whether we fully engage in celebrating or not, there is usually a feeling or two in the air…
The feeling could be something like worry, stress, anxiety, depression or overwhelm. There may be a sense of dread or chaos; lack or judgement; jealousy or frustration. We may feel guilt for celebrating when so much suffering exist all around us in the world or, we may feel anger toward others for celebrating for the same reason.
Because of these feelings, this time of year can be one that we simply want relief from: we may say things like: ‘When this is all over, I can finally rest;’ or ‘I just can’t wait ‘til all of this is done. It’s so exhausting.’ We may experience a deeper, quieter expression of dread like thoughts of suicide or self-harm or find our substance use increases in a way we may not have seen coming. These sentiments & behaviors are about stopping the deeply uncomfortable feelings that the holidays so routinely bring.
When these feelings are examined, we have the chance at a different kind of experience during the holidays. Even more so, when we create an action plan to manage these feelings, we open up the heart-space to enjoy the season more fully.
This year, I’d like to invite you to explore these feelings with you with the intention of sincerely connecting with the joy & peace that really do exist in the present moment, & especially the holiday moments.
I am currently offering individual therapeutic coaching sessions specifically designed to support you in finding your intention for this holiday season & creating a deeply supportive action plan to achieve your desire. You may want to create a plan to interact with difficult family members with more ease; to refrain from drinking alcohol; to engage with others so as not to be alone or to manage your depression more effectively when it is activated. Whatever your desire, we will work together to explore how to get you there.
These sessions are offered either in-person or on-line. Reach out to me here and send me an inquiry about coaching. Additionally, if you know of someone in your life who may benefit from this kind of offering, please send along this email.
Here are some things to consider as you create a self-care plan this holiday season:
- Who do I need to set boundaries with this holiday season & why?
- How do I intend to take care of my body?
- Are my prescriptions filled and available to me?
- Are my supplements filled?
- What schedule changes are happening with work, at home, at school, the gym, the studio, therapy, support groups that I need to consider & work with so my flow is in tact?
- What support groups will I be engaging with to connect with others & my well-being?
- How am I feeling about my finances? What kind of support do I need around this?
- How will I organize time away from people in order to re-charge?
- How will I practice relaxation?
- Is there a place I can volunteer?
- Do I know how to get help if I need it in an emergency?
This holiday, let’s plan on taking excellent care of our emotional selves & soak up some joy this season.
