Managing the Holidays

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Imagine the perfect holiday:  family and friends come over, there is laughter and bonding, and happiness abounds.  Now imagine the same scene and in walks Aunt Laura. “Oh my, you’ve gotten so big,” she exclaims to your sensitive 14 year old daughter, “I’m afraid the clothes I bought for you won’t fit.”  Next, Grandma sits at the table talking about how she has been following the Whole30 movement, and has eliminated sugars, grains, legumes, dairy and additives. She is on Day 15 and oh my, she can’t eat anything that is being served!  Uncle Ben is talking about the latest marathon he ran, his new personal best and was in the top 10 for his age group.  An argument erupts because Grandpa is overdrinking and is not a happy drunk.  Whew!  The holidays!

How do we inoculate ourselves from the potential toxicities that often accompany holidays?  One way is to resist commenting about appearance.  Even seemingly benign statements can fester in someone’s brain and cause self-consciousness and distress.  Some safer comments are “You look so happy” or “I love seeing you smile!”

Discussing how many calories are in the tiramisu,  how much weight you’ve gained over the holidays, what restrictions you plan in January are also conversation busters.  Try to steer conversation away from food.  Remember that all food is fine in moderation and the holidays happen one time a year.

Self care is important during the stressful holiday time.  Take time daily to exercise, practice mindful breathing and gratitude.