Are You Affected by Holiday Stress?

Some years the Holidays come and you find yourself not feeling quite so joyous. It may be that you have a grievance with a family member and you are not quite sure if you want to be part of the traditional family gathering. It may be that an illness, death or divorce has changed the family dynamics. It may be that these economic hard times are just making life very difficult and you are feeling the strain of whether to purchase gifts or not.
Well, here are a few suggestions to help you through these times. Getting enough rest is important. When you are exhausted, which can happen easily during this busy season, everything seems worse. So rest, exercise and good nutrition are the first steps to feeling better. Seasonal depression can set in for many people with the lack of sunshine in winter months. A walk in the fresh air and sunshine is the best self help available. Obviously, a trip to the doctor if you are really not feeling well is in order.
Slow down and decide what is really important to you. Gifts of time can be the greatest gifts given and they don’t cost money. Spending time with your loved ones on a one to one basis is a wonderful gift. The gift of listening to another person and letting them know that their feeling mean something is very important.
As far as dealing with family conflict, this is a good time for resolutions. The greatest gift of all is the gift of forgiveness. And forgiveness is really a gift that you give yourself! Try it. You will feel better!