Working Through Grief During the Holidays

Grief triggers appear everywhere when significant holidays arrive.   KEY POINTS   Grieving a loved one during the holidays can be especially challenging, partly because the person’s absence forever changes longstanding rituals. Not everyone experiences grief in the same way, so it is important to be patient with others who grieve differently. People may need[…]

What Are the Post-Holiday Blues?

Post-Holiday Blues Post-holiday blues usually refer to the short-lived mental distress, anxiety, and sadness that arises after the holidays.   The holidays are a busy time and they last from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve. This period might include celebrations and get-togethers for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s Eve. That’s a long period[…]

How to Calm Down Quickly: 9 Things You Can Do Right Now

Too much stress can feel overwhelming, and it often sneaks up on us. When you need to relax your mind and body immediately, try these nine quick, easy strategies.   Easy ways to calm down fast:   Take a walk. Breathe deeply. Visualize relief. Reframe your situation. Relax your muscles. Sniff something soothing. Write it down. Drink some[…]

25 Best Christmas Eve Traditions to Make Lasting Memories With Your Family

So many things to do while you wait for Santa!   Christmas Eve is one of our favorite moments of the holiday season, the night you can relax after lots of prep—and hopefully checking lots of fun activities off your Christmas bucket list—slow down, spend some quality time with your friends and family, and take part[…]

How to Handle the Stress of Holiday Shopping Amid Supply Chain Disruptions

Finding the perfect gift for everyone on your list is rarely easy. But this year has some additional challenges that may make holiday shopping even more stressful than usual.   Surging rates of COVID-19 in some areas make in-person shopping a potential health risk. The price of goods has climbed a staggering 6.2% in the 12[…]

13 Simple, Non-Materialistic Ways to Find Joy Around the Holidays

Here are some ideas for cost-free activities and traditions that can bring you delight, connection, and happiness this time of year.   Around the holidays, we hear songs about joy—whether that’s “joy to the world,” or “tidings of comfort and joy.”   But what is joy, and where can we find it these days?  […]