It comes as no surprise that stress, fatigue and even depression are often heightened during the winter holiday season. Regardless of your religion – or whether you’re religious at all – it can be an exhausting and challenging time.
During the holidays, other people’s needs are flying at you from all angles. Your boss may have extra work for you to finish before taking time off; social demands are high with many parties to attend; and family is asking for extra attention, especially if your extended family is making an appearance. With everyone else demanding so much from you, it can be easy to forget or minimize your own needs. This is where the importance of self-care comes in.
Self-care is just that – spending a little extra time or effort engaging in caring behaviours for you and you alone. There are probably lots of things you already do that fit into this category, whether it’s enjoying a long bath, listening to your favourite podcast, or going for a jog. Self-care can be anything that nourishes your mind, body or spirit.
Most importantly, recognize that just like your children, parents, friends and partners – you have needs. Remind yourself of this small but important fact each day to ensure that you tend to all aspects of what’s important.
If the holidays are getting to be too much, and you’re noticing a higher than usual level of emotional or mental distress, talk to one of our counsellors. Visit workhealthlife.com or call 1 866 833-7690 for more information.
Tags: holiday stress, stress management
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