We may overeat or overdrink and feel physically miserable. Our priorities in life sometimes get shoved by the wayside - we forget to enjoy ourselves and time with friends and family. In addition, if this has been a year of major changes, the holidays may make us feel more vulnerable or reminiscent. These changes include things like marital separations or divorce, single or step-parenting, work and financial burdens, the death of a loved one, concerns about body image, weight gain or loss. When these life-style changes have occurred, often the holidays can become emotionally loaded, stressful and dissatisfying.
Traditions can become a source of stress for many people.
If they are really just habits, simplify or even drop one holiday tradition this year. Or begin new traditions. Families that have lost a loved one since the last holiday may benefit from making a new start. Swap the usual holiday roles and accept that things may not be perfect. Have different family members take turns hosting the big holiday meal.