The holiday season brings hope to one and all.  It’s the time of year when optimism and goodwill towards one another is yet again renewed.  No matter what we celebrate or what our beliefs; it’s the time of year when we focus on others and on giving.  We reconnect with friends and loved ones celebrating with parties and good cheer.

But for some of us it can become a hectic and stressful time.  These moments may be short-lived lasting just a few hours or a few days.  Sometimes it might feel like the whole world is celebrating without you. it’s not unusual to experience feelings of sadness or loneliness.  It’s actually a common condition that is known as the holiday blues.  I’ve experienced it in some years and didn’t even realize it while other holiday seasons just pleasantly breezed on by.

So what can you do to avoid the holiday blues?  Well, there are lots of things you can do to avoid the holiday blues or at least to minimize their impact on you.  The best thing to do is simplify.  Take a moment to pause from the hectic pace, and slow down so you can enjoy yourself. 

Avoid getting caught up in the commercialization of the season.  Long ago I decided I would limit my gift giving spree to just a few very special people in my life.  Since I made this effortless pledge to myself, I have been able to truly enjoy the holiday season.  I feel less stressed and I am able to dedicate my time in more rewarding ways. 

You too can find ways to reduce the demands in your life and thereby avoid the holiday blues.  Try it, you might find the holidays to be more rewarding that ever before.

• Feeling lonely? Volunteer a few hours or even a day.
• Find new ways to celebrate – let go of some of the old traditions and start some new ones.
• Enjoy some of the many free holiday activities within your community.
• Treat yourself to something special – a movie or a special lunch.
• Enjoy the holiday treats, but avoid overindulging in food and alcohol.
• Set realistic expectations for your holidays and be flexible.
• The best gift is the gift of time.  Share it with others.
• Speak with a Psychic to gain clarity and understanding.
• And most important of all, remember the many blessing in your life.

If you know someone who is experiencing the holiday blues try to involve that person in your holiday activities and be a good listener.  They will likely do the same for you in your time of need.