By Stephanie Chilton -
The holiday season carries expectations of joy, togetherness, and celebration. If you are grieving, however, the holidays can amplify feelings of sadness and longing. To make things a little easier, take some time to plan how you will manage your grief over the next few weeks.
Choose your thoughts
It’s natural for painful memories or feelings of loss to arise during the holidays, and it is easy for those thoughts to spiral out of control.
Try to notice when this happens. Acknowledge your emotions without judgment, then gently shift your attention to something that brings comfort.
Painful thoughts are perhaps inevitable, but you can choose whether to dwell on them or let them go.
Seek connection
Grief can be isolating, but you don’t have to face it alone. Reach out to trusted friends or join a local or online support group.
It may be the last thing you feel like doing, but just sharing your feelings with others who understand can provide some relief and comfort.
There is no need to suffer alone.
Honor the memories
If you are mourning a loved one, finding ways to honor their memory can bring a sense of connection.
Light a candle in their name, hang a special ornament on the tree, or cook a dish they loved.
These small gestures can make their presence feel closer during the holidays.
Redefine traditions
Life evolves, and so can your holiday traditions. If certain activities bring up painful memories, don’t be afraid to switch them for new ones that bring you comfort.
Host a quiet dinner with close friends, plan a self-care day, or carve out some time to relax with a good podcast (starting with Mature Allure of course!).
Redefining traditions can help you find meaning in the season.
Lend a helping hand
A great way to seek connection and shift your focus away from triggering thoughts is to spend some of the holiday helping others.
Why not volunteer for a good cause? Or perhaps you know someone who is likely to be alone and might appreciate a visit or a helping hand.
While grief during the holidays is challenging, honoring your feelings and practicing self-compassion can help you navigate this season with grace and resilience.
How will you be spending your holidays? Have you found alternative traditions that might inspire others? Share your thoughts in the comments below and shine a light of hope for those who may be struggling this holiday.
