Come Home to Self for the Holidays
The holiday season is filled with great joy for many; however it is not uncommon to hear others say “I can’t wait until it’s over.” Holiday stressors include: relationship challenges, exacerbation of addictions, grief, financial overspending, loneliness, and social demands.
One carol suggests that “there’s no place like home for the holidays.” This season can be an opportunity to redefine home, as that place of knowing and inner wisdom deep within you. When planning your holiday take time to retreat to your home deep within.
Close your eyes and retreat to your inner home asking yourself:
- With whom do I wish to share this holiday season? Listen to your deepest inner knowing.
- Can I put differences aside with certain family members and keep my expectations reasonable? If not, perhaps I can spend this holiday with other family members or close friends.
- Are there certain people, places, or things that lead me to abuse alcohol, illicit drugs, or to overeat? Who are the people and where are the places that allow me to experience great joy while remaining sober, drug free, and eating moderately? Picture yourself choosing these healthy people and places.
- Am I experiencing my first holiday without a loved one due to death or divorce? With whom can I share my sorrow, acknowledge my grief, and spend the holiday? You may be surprised to discover others have similar losses.
- Am I willing to budget for each person on my gift list and stay within that budget? Remember that happiness and love cannot be purchased through gift buying.
- Am I feeling lonely? Volunteering, eating healthy, exercising, and getting enough sleep are all avenues for combating symptoms associated with loneliness.
- What are the gatherings and activities that feed my soul? “No” is an acceptable word. Saying “yes” when your true sentiment is “no” usually leads to resentment. Before accepting an invitation, come home to self and ask if a “yes” will feed your soul or lead to resentment? Trust your response.
This holiday season, remember there’s no place like home for the holidays. Return to that home deep within yourself and experience the joy of the holiday season.