Another Thanksgiving is upon us. As we express our gratitude for all of the good in our lives, or we struggle to find thanks in our current circumstances, let’s not forget about the importance of self-care! There are many people who struggle around the holidays, and find this time of year exceedingly difficult.
STRESS
Gatherings can be stressful, even around those you feel secure with – whether you are having to travel to spend time with loved ones, or having more than usual guests at your own home, the added stimuli can takes its toll on us emotionally and physically. Some of you may be unable to travel or meet with loved ones, which creates a stress of its own. Still others are plagued by memories of not-so-great holiday experiences in the past.
Whatever your situation or circumstance, as a highly sensitive person, we can become overstimulated by a multitude of internal and external busy-ness. Remember, sensitive people need more time and space to recharge their batteries!
TIPS
Here are some holiday self-care tips for you, the highly sensitive person:
1. Plan to give yourself a break. Be sure to plan in advance to find a quiet space in which you can immerse yourself in solitude for a few moments. Even if your loved ones aren’t generally loud or exuberant, it can still be helpful to get away for a few moments to re-center and ground yourself.
2. Temper your expectations. You may have painted a picture in your mind of the perfect holiday, but things rarely go exactly as planned. In order to avoid disappointment or an over-taxing of your emotions or nervous system, try your best to be realistic in your expectations. It may help to keep in mind that others might be feeling added holiday stress, too.
3. Reach out to trusted friends or family. Have a plan of action with a couple of your closest, most trusted loved ones, and coordinate how you can support one another if things start to feel too overwhelming. Remember that it is perfectly okay, even healthy, to reach out and ask for help.
4. Practice saying “no, thank you.” Get comfortable with the words by repeating them over and over again, until it rolls off your tongue without hesitation. If someone asks of you more than you are willing to give, or if someone asks you to do something you don’t feel up for, let the “no, thank you” come out without hesitation or guilt. It is not rude or selfish to care for yourself and your needs.
5. Find extra ways to be good to yourself. Whatever you find most soothing – long walks, hot baths, funny movies – allow yourself some added time to indulge in activities that help you stay grounded, mentally healthy, and at peace. Remember that the holidays are here for you, too! Whatever your way of celebrating, or not, take extra gentle, good care of yourself.
Kristen Henshaw, a Licensed Professional Counselor Intern at Counseling South Austin under the supervision of Ann Stoneson, LPC-S, specializes in supporting the highly sensitive person. Her other specializations include social anxiety, trauma recovery, and dissociation. She offers a trans and LGBQ affirming environment. Contact her for your free thirty-minute consultation.