2020 has been a year that has filled us with fear, anxiety and grief. For most of us, the holiday season is not one to look forward to. We have lost loved ones, lost income and are being restricted from traveling and having large gatherings. With social distancing rules all across the globe, many will not get to have that intimate time they would usually have with their loved ones as they would normally. 

As our American neighbors brace for an increase in COVID-19 cases, it is expected to be a dark winter. The Gallup 2020 Global Emotions Report shows that Mericans are sadder than they have been in previous years, with 27% of participants reporting that they experienced a lot of sadness the day before participating in the survey. Even mental health and other “happiness” experts are struggling with their emotions, said Neil Pasricha of The Institute for Global Happiness in Toronto. The consensus is that everybody is feeling this way. 

Holiday blues are not new, but this year we combine the coronavirus crisis and all its related stress with the seasonal affective disorder that typical surfaces during the season and what you have is a bad combination for those at risk for mental health problems. But here are a couple things you can do to help yourself feel less anxious, to boost your mood and to feel happier this holiday season. 

Two Minute Morning

Begin every morning by indicating the things you will let go of. 

“Today I will let go of ….”  You can list as many things as you want to let go for the day and your list can be the same every day or it may change as your circumstances change. 

“Today I am grateful for….” think of all the things, people, places and events that you can be thankful for. It can be the little things, your dog, your child, your spouse, your coffee maker, your favorite socks. Whatever it is that you are thankful for, be specific about it, specify the name of your spouse etc and you can even go as far as listing why you are thankful for them.   

“Right now, I will focus on…” think of that one task on your to do list that has been sitting there for a while and focus on getting that one done before the others today. The feeling of accomplishment you experience will give you a rush of feel good chemicals and your blues will be lifted. 

Do Some Yoga

Yoga can help you to feel better as it helps you to feel more centered. The great thing is that you can find a lot of free videos online so you don’t have to pay for anything and you don’t have to leave the comfort and safety of your home. 

Make a List

Make a list of all the things you need to get done for the day or the week. As you go through and complete these tasks, cross each one off. This will help to keep you focused and accomplishing these small tasks will boost your body’s release of feel good hormones that can help boost your mood. 

Go Outside Safely

Nature is a great healer, spending a little time in nature every day that can boost your physical well-being and your mental wellbeing. With a visit outside you can increase your happiness, reduce your stress and strengthen your immune system. You can spend some time in your backyard if you have one or take a walk in your neighborhood  or in a park if there is one nearby. While outside, ensure you are practicing social distancing to keep yourself safe. 

What are some of the things you do to boost your mood and relieve stress? Please share, your comment could be helpful for someone.  

OV. 19, 202005:16