Anticipating the Holidays

[caption id="attachment_4625" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Photo credit: © Prystai – depositphotos.com[/caption] It’s that time of year! Or, is it? This can be a beautiful time of the year. It can also be stressful, even anxiety-provoking. Some feel alone—possibly even when surrounded by people in what might seem like a festive setting. You may relate to some of the concerns my clients have shared:

1. Food: Too much, too little, not sufficient for you to stay the course of your eating plan, or fears about these things happening.
2. People: Overwhelm, concern about being judged, fear of embarrassment, miscommunication, poor communication, or just plain confusion.
3. Body: Body image concerns, fears about potential comments, or feeling self-conscious.
4. Money: Feeling the pressure of gift giving and other holiday expenses.

How can you make the season a pleasurable time for yourself? Food: Plan ahead If you know that holiday gatherings tend to be a trigger for your eating, try to plan ahead. Have a strategy in place, such as bringing your own snacks or contribution to an event. Plan to eat a balanced meal before attending the gathering, so you're less likely to veer off your wellness journey. Check your emotions and find ways to ground yourself and your reactions. People: Seek support If relationships and communication with your friends, co-workers, or family are a persistent challenge for you, consider seeking support from a friend or counselor who can help you develop concrete coping mechanisms and strategies. Feeling supported can completely change your perspective—and so can supporting others. Body: Self-care Take really good care of yourself, starting at this moment. Get the sleep your body needs, and meet its other needs, too. Hydrate, eat nutritious foods, and practice joyful movement—move in ways you enjoy, not because you’re trying to burn anything. Take care of your skin and your teeth, and catch up on doctor visits you may have been putting off. Money: Mindful spending Use lists to plan spending, sales, specific gifts, and any supplies. Pause and take your time shopping. Especially pause before you click “Place order.” Bonus self-care tips Journal: For inspiration and guidance, sign up for my free journal prompts. You’ll receive a text three mornings each week at 9:00 a.m. Text JOURNAL to 1-833-522-1088 and you’re in! Read: My new book The Weekly Nourishment Journal was just released in August. Read about it and order it here. (If you find it helpful, please consider rating it and leaving a review. It’s a way to help others as you have been helped.) I am offering sessions throughout the holidays with a couple of gaps: One is when I make my official move to Chapel Hill, NC, and the other is when I am visiting family in NY and NJ over Thanksgiving. Yep, I will be practicing these tips right along with you!