11/04/2025
Do What Brings You JOY!
I will admit to being one of those people that plays Christmas music on November 1st, although I do take time to put up Thanksgiving decorations, as Turkey & Gratitude Day is my favorite holiday. But I do want to take a moment and remind our clients that we call it the "holiday season" for a reason.
Many years ago, when I was an undergrad, an old acquaintance of mine was listening to me stress out about trying to do end of semester coursework and get out Christmas cards on a college student budget. I love receiving cards, but between school, chronic pain in my wrists, undiagnosed ADHD, and financial issues, I felt frazzled and pressured. My friend very simply stated "do what brings you joy." What a reflection point!
I have tried throughout my life, especially during holiday seasons, to focus on this mantra. It's not selfish to focus on joy over gifts, self care and moments of peace instead of pressure, and relationships over conflict and finances. Do what brings you joy, and after all of these years as a therapist, I would add "and calm."
However you celebrate, we have two solid months between Halloween and New Year's Day. This can be a hard time of year navigating seasonal impacts, family relationships, and split custody situations. It's a great time to look at all of the local activities that are not restricted to just a few official days on the calendar. It's an amazing time to start new traditions with friends, family, or for yourself.
Oftentimes when we work with children in split households, they enjoy not having to rush from house to house on the day of a holiday, and flourish and relax when they get to spend a Saturday celebrating with other family members. Early flexibility will allow them to enjoy future holidays and families will adapt more easily as children grow up and have extended families, work, and other things that come up.
Science shows that children benefit more from experiences than they do with expensive trips or gifts.
Check with your doctor about Vitamin D supplements and Happy Lights. Ask for help in holiday prep where you need it. Schedule additional or check in therapy sessions to discuss boundaries early. Remember those gratitude, compassion, and affirmation exercises.
Reflections Mental Health, LLC is excited to sponsor the Holiday Fantasy in Lights at Olin Park again this year as a local, free activity open from dusk until dawn.
Check out reflectionsmhwi.com for more info on our clinic and our openings!
Wishing you a peaceful holiday season,
Rebecca Mahan (Mahan-Strupp), Owner, MA, LPC, EMDRIA Consultant