Embracing the Transition into January 2024
Hello, January 2024! The transition from the festive season back to our daily routines can often leave many of us feeling a bit low. It’s perfectly normal to experience a slump or sadness after the holidays. This time of year, we often miss the excitement, joy, and the special connections we’ve made. Recognizing and normalizing these feelings is the first step in supporting ourselves through this period.
Three Strategies to Support Yourself Post-Holidays
Reflect on the Holiday Highlights and Challenges: Take some time to journal or reflect on what aspects of the holidays were meaningful to you. Was it a heartfelt conversation, a family gathering, or something else? Also, consider what was challenging and what lessons you can take from these experiences. Reflecting helps in understanding what brings you joy and what you might want to change in the future.
- Identify What Excites You About 2024: Think about what you’re looking forward to in the new year. It could be personal growth, career advancements, setting new boundaries, or deepening new friendships. Focusing on these positive anticipations can shift your mindset from what you’re leaving behind to the exciting possibilities ahead.
- Plan Enjoyable Activities: Actively scheduling enjoyable events or activities can significantly boost your mood. Whether it’s planning a vacation, taking a mental health day, or simply enjoying a hobby, having things to look forward to can make a big difference in overcoming the post-holiday slump.
- Acknowledge and Understand Your Emotions: If you’re feeling low, take time to name and understand these emotions without judgment. Practice curiosity and compassion towards yourself. By identifying the underlying needs behind these feelings, you’re more likely to move through them effectively.
Remember, it’s okay to feel a range of emotions after the holidays. By reflecting, planning, and understanding our emotions, we can gracefully navigate through this period. Here’s to a fulfilling and joyful 2024!
Before you go! Here’s a link to one of my favorite poems by Mary Oliver…“Wild Geese“. She touches on themes of self-acceptance and the universal experience of despair. It contrasts personal struggles with the world’s natural beauty and concludes with a message of belonging and significance for every individual. Oliver does a masterful job of highlighting self-compassion and the interconnectedness of human experiences.
Affirmation of the Day: “I accept and honor my feelings, understanding that post-holiday blues are a natural part of life’s ebb and flow.”
Laura is committed to guiding individuals along their path to mental wellness and has carefully gathered a team of skilled, knowledgeable, and committed therapists at Anchored Counseling Company to assist in this mission. The professionals here create an environment that is supportive and affirming, informed by an understanding of trauma. At Anchored Counseling Co., there’s a shared belief in the fundamental worth of each person, and therapy is delivered with warmth and empathy. The therapeutic philosophy here is built on the premise that every client has the natural ability to enact meaningful and enduring change in their life. To connect with a therapist who aligns with your unique needs, please contact our office at 615.510.3797 or visit our website today.
