It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Or is it? The truth is that the holidays can be a mixed bag of emotions for so many. One may wonder if it is possible to thrive during the holidays and not merely survive. Indeed, it’s time to take control of the holiday season and not let the holiday season control you. Below is a list of holiday self-care recommendations to ensure the holiday blues do not prevail this season.
1. Take a Moment to Pause
“We’re just trying to make it to the end of the year.” This is a common phrase that many know far too well during this time of year. While the holiday season should be a time of warmth and holiday cheer, it has become the mad dash of stress-induced to-do lists, the pressure to attend countless holiday events, added to massive amounts of consumerism which always leads to holiday fatigue and burnout. So, what is holiday fatigue? This is essentially when your body has experienced burnout as a result of end-of-year preparations and celebrations during the holiday season.
God even says in his word, “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.” (Exodus 20:8) This means that God does not want us exhausted and stressed. He wants us to pause from our work to take care of ourselves, and at the same time keep our rest time Holy. Keeping the Sabbath holy means that we need to reverence God during our rest period. Pairing rest time with prayer and worship is a great way to reset our emotions and allow the peace of God to enter our hearts and mind. Aligning your thoughts and dreams with God’s plans is a great way start the new year off strong.
2. Make Room for the Birth of Christ
When so much of the holidays are focused on lavish gift giving and cultural norms, it is important to remember what this season is truly about. Placing more attention on advent and less on things, brings us back to our center and serves as a reminder that Jesus is truly the reason for the season. While the story of Santa Claus brings joy and excitement to a child’s life, the story of Christ’s birth is integral to a child’s Christian identity. Christ’s birth is a story of hope, peace, joy, and prophecy being fulfilled. The Advent season also puts our hearts in a place of expectancy as it is written:
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders, and he will be called, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace, there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne, and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness, from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.” (Isaiah 9:6-7 NIV)
When considering the story of Christ’s birth, emphasis is placed on the location of his birth because there was no room for Him to be born of normal means. As Joseph and Mary searched for lodging nothing was available, which resulted in Jesus being born in a manger amongst animals. While His birthplace was ultimately a part of His story, being that he was born of humble beginnings, as followers of Christ it is important to recognize the significance of making room for Jesus in our hearts. This is especially important as we honor Christ’s birth. Holding space for Advent is ultimately giving Christ the honor and reverence He deserves.
3. Trade Stress and Anxiety for Gratitude
The holidays are a great time to practice gratitude. During a season where the focus is on getting rather than giving, and the stress of ensuring better gifts are purchased than the year before, the practice of gratitude can help re-center our focus on what is important. A couple years ago, I purchased a gratitude journal for my daughter to assist her in understanding how God has blessed us. This practice can be beneficial for both adults and children alike. Additionally, volunteering time for a good cause as a form of gratitude helps us directly understand needs versus wants and what truly matters.
For some, the holidays can be difficult because of the loss of loved ones. Most often, depression sets in easily during isolation. Surrounding yourself with individuals who love you and are willing to pour into you during this time is so important. And while it is so easy to push others to reach out for community and support during the holidays, we should reach out to those who may be experiencing loneliness. Do you know someone that just lost a close friend or relative? Do you know someone who doesn’t have a family to spend the holidays with? If so, you may be the answer to prayer. Perhaps you may not be able to reach out physically and see them in person, but a phone call or video chat can do the trick.
5. Set Boundaries
Alternatively, for others loneliness is not an issue. There are some of us who have been blessed with an overwhelming abundance of family and friends. But sometimes this comes with its own set of issues. The holidays can be difficult due to unwanted conversations, comments, and unwelcome questions. Add unmet expectations to the list and you’ve got a ready-made disaster waiting to happen at the Christmas dinner table. Setting boundaries and expectations prior to meeting with family is key. Perhaps you decide to stay at a neutral location when you arrive in town. Perhaps talking about relationships, career, or politics is off the table. The goal is to keep things as peaceful as possible. So, prior to getting together with loved ones, take a moment to consider how you would like things to play out and proactively make living arrangements or craft ready-made responses to be ready when the moment arises. “Behold, how pleasant it is when brothers and sisters get along!” (Psalm 133:1-3 MSG)
6. Keep the Routine
Lastly, we all know what things feel like after the holiday is complete. It can be quite difficult to get back into the swing of things. Overindulging in movie nights, unhealthy eating, along with staying up late never benefited anyone. Sticking to your normal routine can assist you at the top of the year when life sets back in.
Most of all, remember Jesus is the reason for the season. Focus on the Savior to avoid becoming overwhelmed by the stuff and the busyness this season can bring. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
