How to Slow Down During the Holidays

With the holidays upon us, I know there are many busy days ahead. I want to remind you of the importance in intentionally slowing down from now until the end of the year. Be mindful of your mental health during the holiday season.

The Weight of the Holiday Mental Load

I am notorious for at least three Momsplosions during the holiday season. If you’re new here, a Momsplosion is when an overwhelmed and overstimulated Mom has an emotional outburst of some variety (tears, yelling, hiding in the bathroom, etc.). Every year I say I want to slow down during the holidays to avoid a meltdown, but inevitably lose it over something. From decorating our home to planning Thanksgiving to celebrating two December birthdays, it is easy to feel like you’re drowning.

Thankfully – I am not alone.

Many people, especially Moms, feel their mental load is even heavier than normal during the holiday season. From the pressure of creating the perfect holiday to planning events and coordinating gifts, there is a lot of added stress on parents from November to December. I’m no expert at lightening the mental load of Moms during the holidays – but I do know one thing that definitely helps.

Slowing. Down.

Here is How to Slow Down During the Holidays:

• Decline invitations if you need to recharge and say no if it feels overwhelming. Setting boundaries is healthy.
• Inhale in the smells and take in the sights of the season – make sure you schedule moments for mindfulness, whether it’s deep breathing or enjoying nature, to help ground yourself.
• Savor the special moments by putting down your phone.
• Limit your to-do list to meaningful activities and let go of unnecessary tasks.
• Don’t let the chaos consume you. Not every moment has to be planned and perfect – allow for spontaneous moments of joy without a packed agenda.

If you are truly feeling unhappy or sad, never hesitate to reach out to your primary care doctor or contact a mental health professional. Therapy exists for a reason – and it is completely normal (and also amazing).

Read more: Thoughts After Thanksgiving on Slowing Down