Written by: Kate Georgiadis, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
With the holiday season already here, excitement and joy are often accompanied by a familiar guest: anxiety. For many women, the holidays bring a mix of emotions, from the warmth of family gatherings to the stress of managing expectations and everything in between. Let's talk about keeping things real, taking care of ourselves, handling those tricky family moments, and being smart with our holiday spending.
1. Setting realistic expectations: Pursuing a 'perfect' holiday can often lead to undue stress. It's important to remember that perfection is not necessary for a joyous holiday. Setting realistic expectations means recognizing your limits and prioritizing what truly matters. Whether it's cherishing family time, embracing holiday traditions, or simply finding moments of peace, focus on what brings you genuine joy and fulfillment. It's okay to say no to excessive holiday demands and choose simplicity over complexity.
2. Embracing self-care and mindfulness: In the whirlwind of holiday activities, self-care and mindfulness are crucial. This season, carve out moments for yourself amidst the chaos. Whether it's a quiet morning with a cup of tea, a brief meditation session, a peaceful walk, or a quick workout, these acts of self-care can recharge your batteries and improve your overall well-being. Practicing mindfulness can also enhance your holiday experience, allowing you to savor each moment, from the twinkling lights to the laughter of loved ones.
It's important to note that self-care is not self-indulgence. While self-indulgence usually includes short-term, immediate gratification of personal desires without much consideration for long-term consequences, self-care is often practical and geared toward long-term health benefits.
3. Financial management and avoiding overindulgence: The pressure to spend and indulge can be overwhelming during the holiday season. A mindful approach to both finances and festivities can alleviate this stress. Set a budget for holiday expenses and stick to it, opting for meaningful rather than extravagant gifts. Similarly, enjoy holiday treats and festivities in moderation. Indulgence is part of the season's joy, but mindful enjoyment can prevent feelings of guilt or regret later on.
4. Navigating family dynamics and social gatherings: Holidays often mean navigating complex family dynamics and multiple social events. It's essential to approach these gatherings with a strategy for maintaining your mental health. Remember, setting boundaries is healthy. Whether it involves limiting time spent in stressful conversations or choosing which events to attend, do what feels right for you. Communication is key – expressing your needs and limits can help mitigate misunderstandings and reduce anxiety.
The holiday season, with all its glitter and gala, doesn't have to be a time of anxiety. You can navigate this festive season with grace and joy by setting realistic expectations, prioritizing self-care, managing social dynamics wisely, and being mindful of financial and physical indulgence. Remember, the essence of the holidays lies in the warmth of shared moments and the love that surrounds us, not in the pursuit of perfection.
Kate Georgiadis, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Kate Georgiadis is a pioneer in women's fitness and empowerment, combining her Master’s in Education and Psychology with a dual Master’s in Exercise Science, specializing in Strength, Conditioning, and Sports Performance. An advocate for holistic wellness, her methods focus on Empowerment, Education, and Community. Offering personal training, group classes, and nutritional coaching, Kate and her company help women excel in their health, careers, and social lives. She has guided hundreds in surpassing fitness goals while creating a supportive community where every woman’s fitness journey is shared, celebrated, and sustained.
References:
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Díaz-Zavala, R. G., Castro-Cantú, M. F., Valencia, M. E., Álvarez-Hernández, G., Haby, M. M., & Esparza-Romero, J. (2017). Effect of the holiday season on weight gain: A narrative review. Journal of Obesity, 2017, 2085136. https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/2085136
Martínez, N., Connelly, C. D., Pérez, A., & Calero, P. (2021). Self-care: A concept analysis. International Journal of Nursing Sciences, 8(4), 418–425. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijnss.2021.08.007
Yanovski, J. A., Yanovski, S. Z., Sovik, K. N., Nguyen, T. T., O'Neil, P. M., & Sebring, N. G. (2000). A prospective study of holiday weight gain. The New England Journal of Medicine, 342(12), 861–867. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJM200003233421206
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