Christmas Care For You

It’s the Christmas Season.

And it’s coming faster than a bullet train in my little world.

You know, for me, the feeling of anticipation begins as November unfolds. Decorations popping up in the neighborhood fill me with a sense of happiness. Even as the days get shorter and my drive home gets darker, the tiny little blinking luminaries dotting each roof line, makes me smile.

I unpack all of my Christmas shirts (of which I have way too many!) and start wearing them as I go about my day. I start shopping right after Thanksgiving! Yes, I love the anticipation of Christmas.

And then as the big day draws nigh, another strange feeling creeps in.

Stress.

All of a sudden I find myself:

• Negotiating on who will host what family gathering
• Dragging Christmas ideas out of friends and families
• Shopping in crowds of not-so-nice people
• Traffic-Traffic-Traffic
• Planning food for dinners and parties and the all famous get-togethers

Whoa.

I have to stop myself sometimes and make sure I remember what Christmas is all about and not allow the frenzy of the season to steal my joy.

In my trauma therapy practice, I saw firsthand how Christmas can be difficult on those who are dealing with depression, anxiety and past trauma. I wanted to encourage those who are not having a Merry Christmas.

I have a Tik Tok account (magnoliablossm3) for my book. But lately, I have started posting positive affirmations to hopefully encourage those who are experiencing the negativity and mental/emotional stress.

I have found in my practice that practicing daily affirmations can be effective in reprogramming the negative thoughts on the past to being in the present and more positive. Nothing takes the place of the therapeutic relationship between a client and their therapist, but affirmations are a way to practice self-calming at home.

So, if you are feeling overly stressed or experiencing the seasonal blues or anxiety, say these things along with me.

Today I will find things in my life that make me smile.

I believe in myself. I am capable. I am strong

I will ask for help when I need it and accept help when it is offerred

My story is not yet finished. I have the power to change it if I want.

I have a purpose

I matter!

So you don’t have to say those affirmations, but I challenge you to find the things that you want to believe about yourself and practice affirming them daily.

Believe in Yourself!

I Believe in You!