Combat Holiday Blues with Effective Habits

The holiday season can be overwhelming and stressful for everyone.

During this time of year, for those who are alone, it can be mentally and physically draining because of all the social and family gatherings that occur during the holidays.

My husband and I spend Thanksgiving and Christmas with our three cats. Even though we are a small family, we sometimes feel lonely.

Traveling long distances to visit family has become too expensive in this current climate. I know we are not the only ones facing this challenge.

The fact is, we are not alone. This time of year can be difficult for many people. Some may have lost a loved one, are single, or are children of divorced parents, and the holidays can be overwhelming.

I love the holiday season and its ambiance. However, I sometimes experience the holiday blues.

These are 4 Habits that I practice every year until the new year to take care of my physical and mental well-being. I hope they work for you.

Get Off Social Media

I will be honest with you; this is a hard one. I always get off social media throughout the holiday season because scrolling through all the pictures, social gatherings, and family posts of everyone with a picture-perfect smile makes me feel bad about myself.

I don't have a picture-perfect family and life. Life is not perfect, and most social media posts are facades.

If you find it difficult to quit, try to limit the time you spend on social media for the sake of your mental health.

Use this time to reflect on what you are most grateful for and treasure the positive facets of your life.

Also, decorate your place with plenty of Christmas lights and listen to music that brings you joy.

Get Outdoors

Studies have shown that people who get outdoors more often are happier, healthier, cognitively, and physically stronger.

You can boost feel-good hormones (serotonin, endorphins, and dopamine) and increase cardiovascular and muscular fitness.

The most inexpensive and easiest way to improve your health and wellness is to get outdoors and enjoy Mother Earth while walking, biking, or running.

I challenge you to spend at least 15 minutes a day and one hour on the weekends outdoors.

Getting at least 150 minutes (2.5 hours) a week of moderate-intensity is suggested for most adults. You can meet this recommendation by brisk walking for 30 minutes daily.

Start Writing

I have been writing in a journal about my experiences for years, especially during the holiday season, because it helps manage my holiday blues.

Maintain a log of your experiences and feelings. Being mindful of your feelings and events occurring in your life can help you change the direction of your situation.

Your writings can make you more aware of what your triggers are and how it affects your mental health. In learning, you can learn how to adjust your environment to better your overall mental health.

Volunteer

Giving back is the best thing you can do for your mental health.

During the holidays, living in isolation can be detrimental to the brain, and this experience could lead to depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts for some young and older adults.

If you don't have family to spend time with, volunteer your time for a cause.

Everyone has a story, and you may realize your story is not as unique as you think. Why not share your story with others and make them feel less isolated?