By: Jamie Perillo, LPC
The holidays can be full of
wonderful activities, visiting with family and friends, and enjoying family
traditions, but for many, it can also be an overwhelming, and have too many
obligations, expectations, and expenses. When you Parent from you C.O.R.E. you
can set limits, focus on your family values, and be present to enjoy the
holidays. Here are a few ways to parent from your C.O.R.E. this holiday season:
Communicate: Express your needs. If you need help, time for
yourself, or a have a desire to participate in specific traditions or
activities, ask for it. Be clear and specific on what you need with those close
to you. When your needs are met it is easier to enjoy the season.
One to One Time: There can be a lot of opportunity to run from one
party or cookie swap to the next, but it’s important, especially this time of
year, to make individual time for you and your family. The big office party may
feel important, but imagine the enjoyment of gathering with a small group of
friends or taking a family drive while listening to holiday music ad drinking cocoa to view local holiday lights. To explore more family time ideas
check out our previous blog on “25 Affordable Family Holiday Activities.” Don’t
forget to take a little time for yourself - perhaps make that hot cocoa a little
special and enjoy a movie.
Rituals: If you don’t have a few already, this is the perfect time
of year to start family rituals or traditions. Choose something meaningful to
your family values. Our family enjoys baking cookies, gathering with friends and family,
having movie nights, and volunteering.
Emotional Presence: The excitement and often hectic nature of the season can
pull you right out of the present moment causing you to miss out on meaningful moments. Many parents
express difficulty being present with their children and spouse when they are
silently checking off their “to do list” and feeling exhausted. When you notice
yourself drifting from the present moment, take a few deep breaths and feel
your feet on the floor. Then observe what is occurring around you in that exact moment and describe it to yourself. This exercise will help you let go of your stressful thoughts and re-enter the moment to allow you to
enjoy your time with your family. Focus on their smile, laughter, silliness and
excitement, or just a moment when you are grateful for where you are and what
you have.
By focusing on these steps you will find yourself more
relaxed, present, and happier this holiday season.
However, that sense of fall reminded me that soon our kids will be heading back to school. Indeed, many districts start as early as the first week of August and many schools are in full swing before September hits. http://www.scoutstervuren.com/
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