The holiday season is here and for many it can be a season of togetherness but for others it can become a stressor. As a therapist, during this time of the year I share with my clients’ actionable steps to support increasing self-care, time management, healthy boundary setting, and ways to reconnect during the holidays. That time of reconnection may be with your partner, friends, family, co-workers, community members, or even yourself. Either way, it’s an opportunity to embrace the gathering of loved ones or time to restore oneself. Also, I share supportive therapeutic techniques when it comes to “going home for the holidays” which can bring forward stressors you may not realize. So, let’s chat about ways you can “reconnect” this holiday season.
Taking Steps to Reconnect
Self-Care Routine: Reconnecting to Myself
What is a self-care routine? It’s considered a consistent routine of ways to care for yourself which could include any of the following:
- Taking naps or adjusting sleep schedule to increase rest.
- Physical exercise or time in nature.
- Long baths or a night care routine.
- Taking to enjoy a new hobby or watching a show or movie.
- Journaling – this could be a daily, weekly, or monthly practice to process emotions.
Quality Time: Reconnecting to My Partner
Time management is key to consistency to improve quality time together but it literally takes two. Here are a few tips to consider.
- Consider a time to check-in weekly with one another.
- Schedule ahead date nights (for at-home or going out) even when traveling for the holidays.
- Explore a new hobby or experience together, so check out those local event calendars for ideas.
- Express your needs and wants for the relationship.
Togetherness: Reconnecting to Friends and Family
Whether you are going home for the holidays, hosting your loved ones at your home, or traveling to meet in a neutral location, here are a few things to consider to reconnect with your family and friends.
- When we think of healthy boundaries, have you considered your lodging, keeping in mind is it best to stay in the same lodging or separate with your family or friends?
- Are there family or friends’ traditions that are past or present that reconnect you? That’s a great way to reconnect with family and friends but also add new traditions.
- If you find it challenging to find topics to discuss, consider board games or conversation card games to spark conversations.
These are just a few ways to begin reconnecting this holiday season. So, as you prepare for time for yourself or with your loved ones, may it be a time of self-reflection. Therefore, planning ahead or managing your mental health practices differently may be supportive for an even more enjoyable holiday. Consider taking the necessary breaks for fresh air, deep breaths, or running errands when needed if you are gathering with a larger group. If you are planning to reconnect for yourself, consider ways to show self-love during this time which could be as simple as ordering your favorite meal or decorating for the holidays in your home. Happy Holidays!
By Kimberly Knight, LCMHCA
Kimberly Knight is a therapist at Mathews Counseling and has immediate openings for telehealth clients within the state of North Carolina. Learn more about Kimberly here.
All December, we are focusing our blog series around mental well-being during the holidays. You can find the series here:
Part 1: Holiday Harmony: The Power of Routines for Stress-Free Celebrations
Part 2: Home for the Holidays: Building Meaningful Connections and Reducing Stress
Part 3: Navigating Family Gatherings: Five Steps to Stay True to Yourself
Part 4: Finding Your Way: Navigating Grief and Loss During the Holidays: Tips for Healing
