The holiday season does not have to be a source of stress. It can also be an opportunity to practice what we teach: presence, self-awareness, and compassion. By caring for ourselves, we not only protect our own wellbeing but also show up more fully and authentically for the people who depend on us. Taking intentional moments to pause and reflect throughout the season helps maintain balance and perspective.

Above all, remember that it’s okay to take things slowly. There is no timeline for grief, and no expectation for how you “should” feel during the holidays. Treat yourself with the same kindness you would offer a loved one who is mourning.

Keep in mind that just as holidays can be challenging, you can also exit the holiday season with an increased sense of emotional resilience and stronger boundaries. You can feel proud of yourself for making it through and even having a fun time with what you do choose to do with your time. The way to create that is by maintaining your self-care practice, paying attention to yourself, and acting in ways that are in integrity with your personal values and long-term goals.

It's in therapy where raw and potentially confusing experiences are metabolized so they become understandable and usable. The therapist is there, with you, supporting you to process what has happened in your life, whether it was when you were a child, an adolescent, or an adult. That means you’re viewing what happened in a different way and perhaps for the first time feeling feelings that up until now remained unfelt. 

The holiday season is often synonymous with joy, togetherness, and celebration, but it can also bring its fair share of stress. From family dynamics and heightened expectations to financial pressures, many of us find ourselves navigating anxiety and overwhelm during this time. Whether you're struggling with managing social obligations, coping with the absence of loved ones, or dealing with the weight of creating the "perfect" holiday, stress can take many forms.