The Eighth Day of Adulting: Regulating Your Anxiety
The holiday season, while filled with joy and festivities, can also bring about increased stress and anxiety, especially for those managing the responsibilities of adulting. Anxiety, a common mental health concern, can be exacerbated during this time as individuals navigate societal expectations, organize events, and manage finances. In this blog, we'll explore the challenges we face during the holidays and provide practical tips for regulating anxiety, promoting self-compassion, and fostering overall well-being.
Understanding Anxiety
Anxiety is a natural response to stress, but when it becomes overwhelming, it can negatively impact mental and physical health. The holiday season, with its myriad expectations and pressures, can intensify these feelings. Adulting often means juggling work, relationships, and finances, and we may find ourselves caught in the whirlwind of holiday stress.
Tips for Regulating Anxiety:
Practice Self-Compassion: Acknowledge that it's okay not to meet every expectation and that perfection is unattainable. Be kind to yourself and recognize that the holidays are about connection, not perfection.
Set Realistic Expectations: Evaluate your commitments and set realistic expectations for what you can accomplish. Prioritize activities that align with your values and bring genuine joy.
Prioritize Self-Care: Amidst the hustle, prioritize self-care. Whether it's taking a moment for deep breathing, going for a walk, or engaging in a favorite hobby, carving out time for yourself is crucial.
Somatic Exercises for Nervous System Regulation: Incorporate somatic exercises to regulate the nervous system. Simple practices like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness meditation can help bring a sense of calm.
Check out some of our book recommendations on anxiety. These could be a great holiday gift to yourself or even make a stocking stuffer for those friends who vibe with talking about mental health. Therapy Book Club, anyone?
"Anchored" by Deb Dana
"Anchored" by Deb Dana delves into the world of Polyvagal Theory, offering a comprehensive guide to understanding and applying this groundbreaking neurobiological framework. Dana explores how the nervous system shapes our responses to stress, providing valuable insights and practical strategies to foster healing and resilience. If you know Amanda, you know she recommends this book to everyone.
"The Happiness Trap" by Russ Harris
"The Happiness Trap" by Russ Harris is a transformative guide that challenges traditional notions of happiness. Harris, a renowned therapist, introduces readers to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), providing practical tools to break free from the happiness trap by accepting the inevitability of life's challenges and committing to values-driven actions. This read is one of Allison’s favorites to recommend.
"The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom" by Don Miguel Ruiz
While not specifically about anxiety, Ruiz's timeless wisdom provides a foundation for managing stress by promoting self-awareness and personal empowerment. This one comes highly recommended by Amanda.
"First, We Make the Beast Beautiful: A New Journey Through Anxiety" by Sarah Wilson
Wilson shares her personal journey with anxiety, offering insights, and exploring various approaches to finding peace. It's a relatable read for millennials navigating similar challenges. Another one comes highly recommended by Amanda.
"Maybe You Should Talk to Someone: A Therapist, HER Therapist, and Our Lives Revealed" by Lori Gottlieb
While not a traditional self-help book, Gottlieb's memoir offers a unique glimpse into the world of therapy, destigmatizing mental health struggles and providing insight into the therapeutic process. We both adore this read. There’s also a workbook to accompany this book.
Regulating anxiety during the holidays requires intentional self-care and a focus on realistic expectations. By practicing self-compassion, setting achievable goals, and incorporating somatic exercises, we can navigate the holiday season with greater ease, fostering a sense of joy and connection. Remember, the holidays are an opportunity to celebrate and create meaningful memories, and taking care of your mental well-being is an essential part of the festivities.
