By Michelle Nollsch
Hi! I’m back, did you miss me? It’s been two weeks since I last blogged. We had two heavy weeks of business fun, along with putting in a new floor in the dining room and living room area. I usually blog once a week but will be absent from time to time to research more topics, vacations & business-related issues.
Who’s Ready For The Holidays?
What is our topic for this week? Well, the holidays are upon us. As you well know, it’s a crazy time of year! How do we stay sane during the holidays? Here are some tips and tricks for you:
- Plan Ahead-buy gifts & foods in advance to avoid the holiday rush: this includes travel plans & shipping gifts to loved ones.
- Create a To Do List or Checklist-this helps to stay on task.
- Just Breathe-if you find yourself stressed stop and focus on your breath.
- Write out a Self-Care Checklist or Coping Skills list-carry it w/ you.
- Eating Healthy and Exercise-this will help balance emotions and blood sugars.
- Aromatherapy- scented candles, incense or essential oils can benefit your well being.
- Create an Escape Plan if drama should arise at family function.
- Gift Ideas: Candles, Gift Cards, Candy, Dessert or Charcuterie Board.
- Journal your thoughts and feelings-this can be an emotional time.
- Prayer and Meditation can relieve stress.
- Take in the sights and sounds of the holiday season-Cinnamon, Pumpkin Spice, Peppermint and Chocolate can help you stay in the present.
- Book a massage.
- Get plenty of rest; naps are great too!
- Practice Acceptance of schedule changes, setback or delays.
- Create and Carry a Gratitude list.
- Everything In Moderation but by all means have that piece of chocolate cake.
- Listen to music- holiday or otherwise to boost your mood.
- Take a break and spend time w/ a friend.
- Get out of your own head and visit your local art gallery
Family Time
I know the holidays can be a trigger for some people. Keep your self-care checklist handy and schedule some “me” time when you get overwhelmed. I am fortunate that most of our family is sober, and there is little to no drama to deal with. If there is drama, I get to choose whether to engage or not. I usually opt out and let people be who they want to be unless it’s directly affecting me.
This year will be very different for me. I am no longer at my former job where ‘black out’ days exist ( unapproved scheduled time off if you dare), the annual holiday sale, working Black Friday, and the long hours for months starting now. I won’t miss any of this! Oh! Happy days! There is a good chance I may have a great holiday season! I have to admit, last year at this time, I was leaning towards a ‘negative Nellie’ attitude.
Holiday Spirit
I’m looking forward to truly being in the holiday spirit and experiencing joy at the fullest this year! Bring on the pumpkins, chai lattes, and scary movies! My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving-being grateful for all my blessings from this year. I truly believe in the Spirit of Christmas, not the commercialized version we see in the stores. Bring on the Christmas music, movies, and the spirit of giving!
Spread love and kindness wherever you go. Focus on Giving more than Receiving. Happy Holidays!
One response to “Staying Sane During The Holidays”
[…] I hope you found this blog meaningful and informational. As the holiday season approaches, check out my previous blog: Staying Sane During The Holidays. […]