The holidays are such a time of light and wonder this year. Christmas lights up at night, hot cocoa, and Christmas music playing. It’s such a happy time for me personally and many other people feel the same way. However, for some people, this might be the worse time of year for them. Especially if they lost a loved one and it’s hard for them to get that spark of joy that was blazing before. Here are different forms of therapy and different ways to take care of yourself to try around Christmas time to find joy and peace.
Different Types Of Therapy
Grief can be particularly intense during this time of year. Experiencing the loss of a loved one is hard and makes the holidays unbearable for some. Individual grief therapy provides a safe environment to explore the feelings of loss. Research indicates around 60-75% of people who are grieving report that holidays bring up more intense feelings of loss. The season often associated with family gatherings, traditions, and celebrations, can amplify the absence of a loved one. Not everyone has the time or the money, however, if it’s something that you feel you might need, grief therapy can help. You’re not alone in experiencing this.
Group Therapy
Group therapy is another common form. Sometimes connecting with others who are going through similar experiences brings comfort. It provides a sense of community and sharing. You’re not alone and you’re never alone. If processing emotions with strangers isn’t your thing, journaling is powerful, too. Sometimes you just need to get the pen out. I know from experience journaling about my grief has been freeing. Your emotions know how to hit the paper when you do write. As someone who’s introverted, I’m able to say what’s on my heart in the form of writing than speaking most of the time.
Explore Different Ways To Care For Yourself
We’re always hearing about how important self-care is, and it still is. The first thing that pops into our minds is a bubble bath or face mask. But sometimes around this time, a face mask can only do so much. Sometimes we don’t know where to start. To clear your brain for a little bit, you can try a digital detox for mental clarity. Around this time of year, you’re likely seeing a lot of holiday promotions in your email inbox, people posting their videos baking gingerbread cookies (I think they’re overhyped), and Christmas decorations. Set some time aside to unplug and just let your mind be free from the world and its worries. It reduces stress, improves sleep, and gives you a distraction-free space to just be.
Comfort foods and cozy rituals
Christmas and winter are the best time for comfort foods and cozy rituals. Holiday comfort foods are associated with warmth and nostalgia. Perhaps there’s a favorite dish your mom used to make you. Or you can make yourself some hot cocoa with marshmallows or some tea to bring you to the present. The act of preparing and savoring food is a way to keep yourself grounded that nurtures both body and soul.
Embrace slow and intentional mornings
Another great way to ground yourself around this time is to embrace slow and intentional mornings. People are often out and purchasing gifts and maxing out their credit cards in the process. Some people have to mentally prepare themselves for the influx of people who will be over at their house for the holidays. Instead of rushing through your mornings, try and aim for a slower and relaxing morning. If you’re a highly sensitive person (such as myself) your nervous system can be easily overstimulated by constantly being on the go. Start your day with a quiet activity like reading a book, sitting with a cup of tea, or prayer and meditation. This helps calm the nervous system and brings you back to the center.
Stay Connected To Others
Try staying connected with others. As already mentioned, it can be hard to connect with others when you’re dealing with grief. Spend time with people you love who are still here with you. Finding solace and connection is a reminder that you’re still loved and you love others just as much. Especially if you have people in your circle experiencing similar emotions.
If you don’t have people, close family, or family you live close to, you can volunteer to help others and make a positive impact on your community. You can volunteer in soup kitchens and food banks. They experience a high demand for services around the holidays. Volunteering to help distribute meals to those in need can create a sense of connection and purpose. Helping serve meals, packing food boxes, and organizing food drives are wonderful acts of service. You’re not only creating meaningful memories but you’re making a difference and thinking of those in need.
Start New Traditions
Start a new tradition with close family and friends. Sometimes starting a new tradition can shift the focus from what’s been lost to what can be gained. If you have chosen a family that loves to hit up the beach because you guys aren’t fans of cooking and hosting people, you can make that your yearly tradition. Maybe you guys have Friendsmas as a way to remix Christmas but with friends. Maybe you can learn a new recipe and learn how to make truffle cake. These traditions create emotional bonding with others and create new positive memories that nurture a sense of connection and support.
Final Thoughts
The holiday season can be a time of mixed emotions, especially when dealing with loss or personal challenges. While it’s often seen as a joyful period, it can also highlight feelings of grief, loneliness, or stress. However, by embracing different forms of therapy, self-care rituals, and seeking meaningful connections, it’s possible to find moments of peace, joy, and healing. Whether through therapy, creative expression, or nurturing new traditions, remember that your well-being matters most. Take time to care for yourself and honor your feelings, knowing that the holiday season doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Give yourself grace, and allow space for healing and growth this Christmas.
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Get your 10 day Christmas affirmation guidebook for deepening your spiritual practice via blueblisscoach@gmail.com and here’s a brand new podcast episode with Dr. Heath on the Growth Grace Gratitude Podcast, learning about Cognitive Neuroscience and the magic mysteries of the mind! 🎙️
Happy Holidays to all the empaths and students of the cosmic world!
xoxo, @Blueblisscoach
Thank you for the timely Christmas Holiday Handbook 🤩