My friend Lynne, who lives in Denver, put up her Christmas tree last weekend. You might think this is a little early. I did at first. She said that she did it because it made her happy. I’m OK with that. This year the holidays – all of them – will definitely be different. Because of COVID, many of our traditional family events will not be possible.
Holidays can be stressful in the best of times. This year the social distancing and isolation are adding to everyone’s anxiety. So with Thanksgiving coming up this week, let’s take a look at the holidays and how to navigate them.
1. Take some time to reflect on your feelings about the holidays.
Maybe even take a few notes or write in a journal
What is your level of concern about COVID transmission?
Do you have a pod you are comfortable getting together with?
Are there some alternatives to in person meeting that might work for you and your family?
How do you feel about decorating this year?
What are the elements of the holidays that are meaningful to you?
How will your handle gifts if aren’t able to see each other?
2. Decide what is best for you individually
After you realize what is truly important, consider new ways to make the holidays meaningful. I’m thinking of decorating with a few things that bring me joy and make me smile.
3. Have a frank discussion with your family and friends
Discuss with them your thoughts on getting together, decorating and gift exchanges. The most difficult part of the discussion is beginning. When navigating these discussions, emphasize that you care about your family and friends and your goal is for you all to stay healthy. Hopefully starting from that point will encourage everyone to work together.
So what about the Christmas tree? I say do what gives you joy (with thanks to Marie Kondo). If you want to go all out and decorate – why not? If you want to have a minimalist holiday this year, that’s fine too. Start from a place of what makes you the most comfortable and share that in a loving way with your family and friends. Take into consideration their thoughts and feelings and come up with new holiday traditions.
Wishing you all a healthy and happy Thanksgiving!
Sincerely,
Cinda
HypnoNews and Resources
For more ideas about navigating the holidays, check out these articles:
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/should-you-cancel-holiday-gatherings-this-year-because-of-covid/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress/art-20047544
And of course, here’s Marie Kondo’s famous book: The Life-Changing Manga of Tidying Up: A Magical Story (The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up) by Marie Kondō