Bah Humbug

Stress LESS through Mindful Living®

Bah Humbug

bah humbug, holiday blues tips

There Are Many Reasons For Your Bah Humbug

Do you want to turn the feelings of Bah Humbug to Ho Ho Ho this year?

There are several causes if the holiday blues. Typical sources of holiday sadness are stress, fatigue, financial stress, the grief of an old relationship, loss of a loved one, over-commercialization, unrealistic expectations and not being able to be with your family or friends at the holiday.

There are many “Bah Humbug” behaviors such as problems sleeping, being short-tempered, aggressive, eating more, withdrawal or anger. Stress responses may include anxiety, worry or depression. You may develop physical symptoms such as difficulty sleeping, headaches, overeating, overdrinking, headaches or backaches.

I’m Taking A Dose Of My Own Medicine

It has been a tough holiday season for me this year so far. Intellectually I keep telling myself how blessed I am and how happy I should be. I know that in my mind but some years a haunting sadness seeps out of my heart and soul. This time of year brings up so many losses in life. It is the time of year when the global message is about gathering loving families and friends together to celebrate life. I have had my share of losses and challenges in my long, rich life including the loss of my original family, our daughter, my mother, and our farm. Thank God I know these tips that guide me out of the darkness into the light and love of the holidays. I hope sharing them with you helps you move into the light and love of this season.

Tips for Coping With Your Holiday Blues

Lower Your Expectations

 Accept what you are feeling right now. Don’t put pressure on yourself or force yourself to act happy and energetic when you don’t feel that way. Go slow. Be kind to yourself. This is a long season so take it one step at a time.

Try Something New

Celebrate the holiday in new ways. Go to a new place to celebrate. Instead of giving a gift, write a letter or card to another and tell them what they mean to you. Try new foods. Add new foods to recipes you have collected from previous years. Don’t stick to all of the same old foods. Decorate your home and office in new ways. Try a new color, change holiday decorations or linens.

Volunteer

If you are lonely, volunteer some time to help others. Even if you aren’t lonely, volunteering is an instant pick me up. There is a sense of happiness we call “helper’s high,” when you volunteer. You will also meet like-minded people and new friends. Being around like-minded groups also improves your health.

Contact a Relative, Friend or Old Neighbor

Many of us have lost contact with old relationships. This will give you a boost.

Schedule in Time for Yourself Each Day

Take time to nourish your mind, body, and soul. Read an inspirational book, go to a museum or local event. You may want to work out, get a massage, go to a meditation or yoga class.

Surround Yourself with Love

Let your friends know how you are feeling and tell them you need their support and love. make lunch dates, coffee meetings, and dinner dates with friends.

Water

Don’t forget to connect to water. It is 85 percent of your body, and it naturally calms and heals you. Drink water regularly each day. As you drink, give thanks for the water that nourishes your body. Schedule a long bath at least once a week. Take a little longer shower to relax you these days. During the day go to the bathroom and let warm water run down your wrists and hands and take a deep breath. All of these connections with water are relaxing.

Practice Stress Reduction Practices Regularly

 Practice stress reduction regularly by practicing deep breathing, mini-meditations, do yoga, practice guided imagery, repeat affirmations, laugh, sing, go on long walks, listen to music or journal. There are incredible apps to guide you along your journey.