Tis the season of giving, celebrations and self care

Icannot tell a lie. ‘Tis the magical season when my inner child rises to the surface, taking charge of my emotions as my heart becomes fully engaged in the Christmas holiday spirit! A most festive time of year when we all too often find ourselves connecting to the tender holiday memories of our youth. As for the child within, I find myself going back to Christmas Eve, a time when generations of family would gather around our grandparents table as we enjoyed The Feast of the Seven Fishes, a traditional Italian meal followed by delicious desserts, which always included homemade Struffoli. An enchanting family gathering that filled the evening air with such excitement knowing that it will soon be Christmas Day! The day when family would once again come together to honor the true religious meaning of this holiday. To be celebrated with the most precious, timeless gift of all, the sharing of generational love, which at one point in time included 5 generations of family!

Yes, December holidays hold both a religious and cultural meaning around the world as well. Holidays, which include Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa.

The importance of self-care during the holiday season

As we engage in the holiday season, it is important to remember that it is very common to feel added stress — stress that can worsen symptoms relating to depression, anxiety, or a substance use disorder. However, there are ways to help address stress and improve your mental health.

Recognizing your feelings is the first step to addressing and nurturing them

Holidays can bring up a range of emotions for people. Sometimes you can even experience seemingly contradictory emotions all at once. Try your best to acknowledge and accept your emotions rather than place judgment on them. It’s okay to feel happy; it’s okay to feel sad; it’s even okay to feel both happy and sad. Give yourself compassion and allow yourself to sit with whatever you’re feeling.

Prioritize healthy habits

For many people, holidays lead to a massive disruption in your day-to-day routine. But maintaining healthy habits like going to therapy, getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, eating well and exercising are critical to keeping your mental health and well-being on track.

Practice recharging your body and mind

It is important to schedule time for yourself and activities that pamper and recharge your body and mind. This may include reading a good book, working out, spending time in nature, and practicing stress management skills, such as deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness.

Develop a plan if you are feeling stressed, sad, or lonely

This plan may include calling a friend or family member, going for a walk, engaging in an activity that brings joy, or watching a favorite movie. Having a plan in place can help ensure the difficult moments are more manageable.

Connection and supporting others

Connection is essential to our mental health especially during this time of year when feelings of grief and loss can amplify and why checking in on those who may be alone or struggling during the holiday season is so important. Helping to support others be it a family member, friend or neighbor will not only give joy to others, but it can improve your own happiness and well-being as well.

Commit to growth

The holiday season is also a common time for self-reflection, making this a good time for self-exploration as you acknowledge the year behind you and the fresh year ahead.

On a personal note

The true spirit of Christmas isn’t just a season, it’s a feeling that lies within our hearts and why the greatest gift of all is the sharing of kindness and love, be it with ourselves or others. Gifts of humanity that can be shared all throughout the year. Wishing everyone a safe and blessed holiday season!

Donna Pisacano-Brown is a Point Lookout resident who has been a columnist featured in local newspapers since 1996. She is a passionate advocate for drunken driving awareness, and shining a light on mental health topics.