by Autumn Lewis
Giving Tuesday just passed, the holidays have begun, and the California Stay-At-Home order has been amended due to rising cases of the coronavirus. With the ongoing pandemic, I thought it would be fitting to give you all a few gentle holiday reminders to help you get through it all:
The coronavirus has affected our lives in a multitude of ways, one of them being our pockets. It’s okay to limit or skip unnecessary shopping. After all, this holiday is about (virtually) spending time with the people you love more than the amount of money you spend. Remember, right now and more than ever it’s the thought that counts, not the amount on the price tag.
Your family can be both awesome and stressful, and you can learn to set boundaries at your own discretion without permission. If you don’t feel comfortable inviting people over for the holidays, don’t! Things look a little different this year due to the coronavirus so it’s okay to break tradition.
It’s perfectly fine if you don’t feel cheerful and merry and bright all the time. Tis’ the season to be honest with yourself about your emotions, and not perpetuate toxic positivity. Yes, that’s a thing. You don’t have to decorate or wear an ugly Christmas sweater this year. You can simply enjoy “just another day,” while “just being yourself.”
My final reminder is to be gentle and kind to yourself. Self-compassion beats perfection, especially when everyone’s “normal” has changed. Happy Holidays!
