Navigating the Holiday Season at Your Own Pace
Something I’ve been observing in my practice is this: we are all exhausted. The recent election has stirred intense emotions—fear, anger, sadness, and disappointment—leaving many of us feeling unsettled and deeply concerned about our fundamental human rights and autonomy. These feelings are only natural when we face the reality that there are individuals and a government actively working to deny certain groups the right to exist freely or enjoy equal rights and freedoms.
Despite this, we keep showing up—at work, for our loved ones, and while managing the seasonal challenges of the common cold, flu, or COVID. For many, the added strain of navigating relationships with family members or friends who hold different views only deepens the emotional weight. As the weather shifts and our bodies adjust to colder temperatures, it’s clear we are carrying a lot. This collective stress is taking a toll on both our bodies and minds, and my clients are increasingly wondering: How can I continue taking care of myself during this holiday season?
The holidays often pull us into a whirlwind of planning, celebrations, and obligations. Amid the errands and gatherings, it’s easy to lose track of our own needs, moving too fast to pause and check in with how we’re truly feeling. This holiday season, I invite you to step back, take a breath, and give yourself permission to move at your own pace.
1. Honor Your Own Rhythm
The holiday season is often filled with expectations and a sense of urgency—gifts to buy, places to be, people to see. But these are pressures society has placed on this time of year, not mandates. Ask yourself: What pace feels right for me? It’s okay if your pace is slower than others; in fact, it’s essential to listen to yourself and your body. Honoring your rhythm allows you to feel grounded and more connected to yourself.
2. Create Space for “No”
The holidays often come with a flood of invitations and traditions. While it can feel tempting—or even necessary—to say “yes” to everything, setting boundaries is a profound act of self-care. Consider your capacity and remember: it’s okay to say “no” or “maybe next time” if you need a break. Protecting your time and energy allows you to engage more fully with what truly matters to you.
3. Check In with Your Emotions
The holidays can bring a wide range of emotions—joy, nostalgia, and excitement, but also sadness, stress, or loneliness. Before the season sweeps you up, take moments to pause and ask yourself how you’re feeling. Regular check-ins can help you navigate the season more mindfully. Journaling or meditation are great tools to process your emotions and stay anchored in the midst of this season.
4. Prioritize What Really Matters
It’s tempting to feel obligated to keep up with every holiday tradition or expectation. But sometimes, simplifying can make the season feel more meaningful. Ask yourself: What do I actually want to experience this holiday? It might be quality time with close friends or simply a few moments of quiet reflection. By focusing on what brings you joy or comfort, you can reshape the season to suit your needs, even if it looks different from years past.
5. Give Yourself Permission to Rest
Rest isn’t just a pause from the holiday rush—it’s essential self-care. Whether it’s a cozy evening with a book, a long walk in nature, or a moment of stillness, rest helps recharge your body and mind. Self-care doesn’t need to be productive or goal-oriented; sometimes, it’s simply allowing yourself to “be” rather than “do.” This season, give yourself permission to rest unapologetically.
6. Let Go of Perfection
The idea of the “perfect” holiday can create a lot of pressure to meet unrealistic standards. But the holiday season doesn’t have to be picture-perfect to be meaningful. Life is messy, and so are relationships and celebrations. Give yourself permission to let go of perfection, accepting each day as it comes. This mindset shift can free you from feeling like you’re not doing “enough” and help you find peace in simply being present.
7. Set Intentions for the New Year
Instead of rushing into resolutions, consider setting gentle intentions that feel aligned with where you’re at emotionally. How do you want to feel in the coming year? What small, nurturing practices can you build into your life to support that feeling? This approach can help you transition from one year to the next in a way that feels compassionate and realistic.
The holiday season may look different for everyone, but by prioritizing self-care and moving at a pace that feels right for you, you can embrace this time with less pressure and more presence. Taking care of yourself isn’t about withdrawing from celebrations—it’s about finding ways to celebrate that resonate with who you are.
This holiday season, may you find peace in moving at a pace that’s truly your own.
