Tips for a Mentally Healthy Holiday
The holidays are magical, but they can also be chaotic, and not to mention expensive. With so much to do and so many people to interact with, it can be difficult to feel joyous while managing it all. Being proactive about our mental, and overall health can ease the pressure. Below are a few tips that may help us avoid the winter blues and hectic plans.
Spend some time outdoors or near a sunny window. This can stimulate serotonin, a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of happiness. Take a short (or long) walk with your furry companion and hunt for pine cones, they make excellent and crafty decorations. Remember to breathe in the crisp air and think positively, while practicing mindfulness.
Practice healthy sleeping habits. Avoid online shopping in bed. Instead keep a notepad on your nightstand. If you are having trouble sleeping because you can’t stop thinking about all the tasks that need to be completed, or all of the gifts you need to pick up, write them down and revise them in the morning. By writing your thoughts or tasks down, you are easing your mind and quickly getting back to some much needed rest.
Say, “No.” This one is a tough one. Saying no to our family members, or coworkers, can be intimidating but you need to take care of yourself and your mental health. A way to do this is by creating boundaries that protect our time and energy. If this is a difficult thing for you to do, start by saying, “I'm not sure if I can commit to that now. I will get back to you.” By communicating that you are not ready to commit right then and there, it gives you some time to think about their request. When you are ready, give them your answer. Remember that this tip is not giving you a way out of all requests, it simply allows you to process your needs and wants before anyone else’s.
Plan ahead and stick to your routine. Just like you commit to being on time for a dentist appointment, your mental health also needs to be emphasized. If you’d like to go to the gym 3 times a week, at 10 am, pencil it in and treat this self-care time like any other appointment: Come prepared and make the best of it. Remember that self-care includes any of the activities that ease the tension and bring you happiness.
Bump it up. With so much at our fingertips, there is content for everyone. Browse and find a podcast, a music channel, an audio book, or put on your favorite record. You’ll stay smiling and perhaps discover some new and interesting information.
Make it memorable, not perfect. Let’s face it, we all envy the perfect family photos on social media, but the reality is: Family members are messy, loud, and they often do not cooperate despite our vision. 10 years from now, you and your loved ones are more likely to remember the laughter, the silly jokes and the heart-warming moments. You all are not so likely to remember how impeccable and clean the house was, or how many likes an image got on social media.
And last but not least- When the children are nestled, all snug in their beds, you and your partner should say, “yes” to sex! It’s not a myth, sex can burst your immunity, reduce stress, and increase self-esteem. Orgasms increase endorphins (chemicals produced by the body) and raise oxytocin (Often called the love hormone) levels, which promote a restful night’s sleep.
Written by Beth Surya, CPC Student Therapist