By Katlyn Miller, Development Associate - Manager of Communications & Media Strategy
The holiday season can be a stressful time for many people, and the ongoing pandemic adds another layer of stress and anxiety. This is especially true for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking who are already working to overcome many obstacles. We at My Sisters’ Place know that the incidence and severity of intimate partner violence increases in times of great stress.
That’s why it’s important to check in with yourself and others around you as often as possible, including during the holidays. Here are some self-care tips to practice this holiday season.
Unplug
Whether you’re receiving an onslaught of messages from family or seeing triggering messages in the media, it’s okay to step away for a minute. Turn off the TV, leave your phone in a separate area of your living space, and try focusing on something else. Put your energy into a hobby you enjoy or an activity that relaxes you. Whether it’s painting, going for a walk, reading a book, or talking with a friend, it’s okay to give yourself a break and unplug for a while.
Check In With Yourself
A crucial, yet often overlooked, part of self-care is checking in with yourself. “Did I drink enough water today?” “Did I get a good night’s rest?” “How am I feeling right now?” These are all great ways to check in with yourself, your mind, and your body.
It’s okay (and important!) to acknowledge your feelings, even the negative ones. Your emotions are valid. Make a point to ask yourself how you’re feeling throughout the day. This can help you process your emotions and figure out stressors or triggers that bring on those emotions so you can be more aware of them in the future.
Allow Yourself to Say “No”
Just because it’s a holiday doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice your well-being for others. If family gatherings – even virtual ones – are difficult or retraumatizing for you, give yourself permission to decline the invitation. If you can’t get out of attending, try minimizing the amount of time spent at the gathering or bringing someone who makes you feel safe and supported.
Setting boundaries to ensure your comfort and safety is important in any relationship. Family—even during the holidays—is no exception. You have a voice, and you should be able to decide how, where, and with whom you spend the holidays.
We hope these self-care tips will help make your holiday season, and the rest of the year, a little brighter. This year, give yourself the gift of putting yourself first and taking care of your mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing.