How to Have a Peaceful Holiday Season
The holidays can be a very stressful time of the year. The pressure of all the demands can make it feel anything but peaceful. This immense rush cause many to dread this magical time. As a trauma practitioner, I get how difficult the holidays can be. The holiday season can have an adverse effect. It is vital that we stay mindful of how this all impacts us. Here’s some ways try and have a calmer season. Let’s talk about how you can create a holiday season that’s actually restful, meaningful, and enjoyable—without needing a full-scale winter retreat in the mountains.A
Give Up on Perfection:
Let’s face it, the holidays will never be perfect. As hard as we try, it just can’t be. . Holiday marketing has trained us to think everything needs to be picture-perfect. But the reality is that peace lives in the imperfect, unscripted moments.
Give yourself permission to:
Skip traditions that aren’t working for you.
Let your home look lived-in, not staged.
Serve simpler meals that give you time to enjoy your guests.
Wrap gifts imperfectly (or not at all—gift bags exist for a reason).
Remember: The people who love you want you, not perfection. Acceptance is hard but a huge piece of doing what feels right for you and your family.
2. Set Boundaries:
The calendar fills quickly this time of year, which makes boundaries essential.
It’s completely acceptable to say:“We’d love to see you, but that weekend is full.”
“One gathering is enough for me that day.”
“I’ll join for dessert, not the full dinner.”
Every “no” you offer protects space for things you genuinely value. Setting boundaries isn’t selfish, it’s what we need to do to keep our mental health in check. It helps to prevent burnout from taking on too much.
3. Allow Feelings:
The holidays are emotional. They are merry, bright, cheerful and exciting. However, this time can also bring up a lot of sadness, fear, loneliness and even trauma. It’s important to allow all feelings even if they aren’t ideal or are difficult. Take the time to process that emotions, allow yourself to cry when you listen to that song. Mourn what you feel is missing and celebrate what fills you up.
4. Rest:
In the midst of all the craziness, it is key to prioritize rest. Winter in general is a time where we have to take care of ourselves. Running on too little for too long adds on stress, causes burnout, fatigue, frustration and lowers our immune system. It is essential to keep to take time to pause during all the running around
A relaxing holiday isn’t about lacking spirit, rather about embracing it with more intention and less pressure. When you create space for rest, joy naturally follows. So this year take the time to slow down, take in the moment, and celebrate in the way that feels right for you.
Here’s to a holiday season that leaves you refreshed, recharged, and genuinely happy
