Self Care and the silly season
The silly season is upon us!
Looking after our wellbeing over the holidays can sometimes be a challenge. Many of us will have an increase in social events, the added pressure of hosting family and friends, last minute Christmas shopping, and preparing for a planned getaway. As the Christmas holidays fast approach, it can bring a mixed array of emotions that affect everyone differently. Whatever you are feeling, take care and be kind to yourself, and where possible, set aside some ‘me-time’ - because your wellbeing matters!
Ways to look after yourself this season
Use Te Whare Tapa Whā as a wellbeing check tool.
Te Whare Tapa Whā provides a helpful framework for assessing your overall wellbeing and reflecting on how you are feeling. Just like the wharenui, we need four strong pillars (pou) and a strong foundation to flourish.
Here is a helpful 4-minutes video to guide you: Fill My Whare Tapa Whā - YouTube
Set boundaries that help to look after your wellbeing.
This might look like:
Saying no to attending a social event.
Saying no to one more glass of beer offered, or another filling to your plate.
Excusing yourself to leave early in a social function.
Setting a budget that is realistic and reasonable for you on gift giving.
Limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Taking a break from social media.
Just in case you need permission – here it is: it is OK to say no!
Accept the things you cannot control.
Holiday seasons can be a time with a lot of stress and pressure – the long lists of to-dos, limited time to get them done, and expectations of various matters. However, there will be some things that are out of your control. Accepting the things that you cannot control does not mean you have to like or approve of the situation. It is about recognising and acknowledging challenging emotions and experiences, and to move through them more effectively.
Here is a 4-minute video on ‘radical acceptance’: Radical Acceptance: How to Change Your Life by Accepting it First | DBT Skills from Experts - YouTube
Take time to recharge - you can’t pour from an empty cup.
Dedicate 5-15 minutes everyday to recharge yourself. Look back into the Te Whare Tapa Whā framework – which pillar needs recharging? What activities can help to fill the tank that’s running low? This could be going out for a walk, listening to your favourite tunes, watching a show, eating your favourite food, playing a video game, checking-in with a friend, or doing a short mindfulness practice - whatever that works for you.
Here’s a 5-minute guided meditation video: Free Five Minute Guided Meditation with Eve
Reach out for support when you need.
Holiday seasons can be a vulnerable time for many people. It is OK to reach out to people who you trust or feel comfortable with. This could be a family member, friend, neighbour, colleague, teacher, therapist or helpline. If you are working with a therapist, schedule a time to catch-up after the holiday period. This can help you to process emotions, manage post-holiday blues, and set goals for the new year in a safe and supportive environment. Or perhaps you have been thinking about giving therapy a go – this is a sign to encourage you to take that step!
Here is a website for you to look for helplines, in moments of need: findahelpline