Surviving The Holidays

Wondering how you will survive Thanksgiving, Christmas and into the new years?

Are you dreading these holidays, knowing that things have changed during the pandemic?

The holidays are here and we can't socially connect as in the past.

No more recreating happy memories with loved ones who have passed.

Then there is unemployment, financial issues, hunger, social and political unrest.

How do we deal with the many emotions we have to face, the traditions, social changes

and hope for our future?

Here are my survival tips: Breathe - The simple act of taking a deep breath can calm us down and lower our heart rate and blood pressure.

Coping ahead - By expecting the unexpected during the holidays.

Whatever comes your way, remember to take a step back and notice your reaction while taking slow deep breaths. If things don't go your way come up with some encouraging words ahead of time. For example - I can cope with this, I'll doing the best I can.

Contribute - If you can give a gift, if not do something thoughtful for someone else.

Prioritize - Prioritize what is important on a to do list, try and commit to one thing that is important to you.

Laugh - Finding a way to laugh changes body chemistry and can help change your perspective in helpful ways. Don't take things to seriously. Proverbs 17:22 says a merry heart doeth good like a medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones.

Practice gratitude - Express gratitude does not make things better, but it decreases stress by reminding us what is right. Write down what you are grateful for it will help keep you focus on what is right in your life or what good is in your life.

Journal - Write down what comes to mind or how you feel daily it will help you to let out frustration and anger. Just putting thoughts on paper will clear your mind and decrease stress levels.

Treat yourself - It's important to be gentle with yourself, find what works for you instead of drugs, alcohol or behavior that in the end is not beneficial. Do self care activity that is cost effective and easy. Play games on your phone or on your laptop. Keep that favorite lotion, essential oil instead of given it as a gift. Why because you use it as a calming and relaxation element. Carve out time for a bubble bath, your favorite tv show or read a book.

Most important is spending quality time with God - This relationship will release all stress in prayer, worship and reading your bible. May I suggest Psalms 23, 46 and 91 , 1 Peter 5:7 , Isaiah 41:10 and 2 Timothy 1:7 are good encouraging scriptures.

What ideas do you have?