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{Five Fab} Ways to Beat the Holiday Blues

ByGoody
The Holiday season is officially here. Next week is Thanksgiving. Isn’t that crazy? Wasn’t it just Halloween? But I won’t complain since this is my favorite time of the year. I love everything about Thanksgiving and Christmas– the food, the family time and the decorating.

My fondness for the holidays stems from my memories of growing up in Brooklyn. Watching the colors of the leaves change for Thanksgiving and waking up to a snow-covered yard on Christmas morning was a magical time.
But as you grow up, life happens and some of that magic gets lost. About five years ago I decided to shift my energies and rekindle my holiday spirit. I began focusing on the people and things that added joy and meaning to my life. 
So today my pre-holiday gift to you is this post– 5 Fab Ways To Beat The Holiday Blues.

1. Don’t Expect Perfection.

Although this season is all about joy and gratefulness, we sometimes get caught up in the mentality that our holidays are supposed to look like Hallmark card perfection. Putting unnecessary pressures on ourselves to have the perfect meal, set the perfect table and have the perfect tree or decorations can drain our holiday spirit. I know because I’ve been there.

When family comes over the table has to be just so. I spend all day cooking  and by the end of the day I’m exhausted. Trying to recreate the “perfect” holiday scene leaves me drained and honestly, most of the time I’m not as joyful as I’d like to be. Now, I’m not saying you shouldn’t make a nice and warm welcome for your family and guests, by all means go for it, but don’t beat yourself up if something does not come out “perfect”. And most importantly, do it with love and enjoy yourself too.

2. Spend Time With Your Friends and Family.

Some of our focus has shifted to a more materialistic view of the holidays. Shopping has become the main theme, causing us to lose the true spirit of the season. This year, focus on quality time with your loved ones instead of shopping. Enjoy the magic of the holidays with them and create lifelong memories. Play games, watch holiday movies or cartoons, or just spend time together the old-school way– disconnected from your electronics/social media.

3. Get Creative.

Instead of buying gifts, decorations and ornaments, try making your own. It would be a great new tradition you can incorporate in your holidays. If you need a little inspiration, Pinterest is fantastic for finding DIY holiday projects. (See also DIY Joy Sign.)

4. Take some time for yourself.

Spending time socializing is great. Being with your family and friends is a big part of the holiday season. But the holidays can bring both joy and stress. So make sure you get some one on one time with yourself too. Treat yourself to some quality time with you. Read a book, meditate, exercise, take a soothing bath– anything that inspires you and recharges your batteries.

5. Give back.

“It’s not how much we give, but how much we put into giving.” — Mother Teresa

Giving is a beautiful way of honoring the spirit of the holiday. This time of year can be hard for many people. So giving of yourself can be one of the most beautiful things you can gift someone this season. Getting involved with your local church, shelter or food bank is a good way to get you started. Here are a few suggestions and links to get you started:

I hope these 5 tips will help you navigate the next couple of months with renewed love for the season.

Until next time, my lovelies, 



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