If you’re one of the lucky ones, you are going to have a lot of people to see this holiday season, and the best part of that is the ability to travel to other places during this time. There are going to be a lot of people to see and a lot of things to do, but just because you are in the celebratory mood does not mean that you have to forgo what’s right for you and what’s right for your mental health. With a lot going on in the next few weeks, here are some ways you can continue to care for yourself during your holiday travels.
Disassociate When You Must
Conversation can get overwhelming and small talk can be daunting. At every turn, you are going to have to catch up yet another person with what has been going on in your life. Remind yourself that when you are done talking, it’s okay to walk away and disassociate. For a lot of people, they may not be happy with their station in life and talking about it over and over again can be harmful.
If you are feeling this way, take a moment to yourself and remind yourself that just like the person you were just talking to, everyone is doing their best. You are doing your best. A lot in life is temporary, and if you can have a positive outlook on where you are in life, talking about what’s been going on will be easier, but take that moment to reset.
Check In With Your Body
You are going to be away from home and in new surroundings and places. When this happens, our digestion can go off and we can encounter things away that we wouldn’t encounter at home. If you are staying in a hotel, check the room for cleanliness and things like bed bugs that may be lurking around. Be preventative instead of reactive or else you may find yourself in the pharmacy buying Lyclear to clear up any infestations.
The same goes for your digestion, you may want to bring along over the counter medications that will help keep you on track. You will be eating different foods in different places and it may upset your body. Take care of yourself first by preparing so that you can be in optimal health and in a good mood for everyone else.
Have Intimacy Boundaries
If you are single, you just may make new friends along the way, and you may want to have a certain kind of fun with them. Know that this is healthy and it’s all a part of the human experience. Do keep in mind, however, that your body has boundaries and they must be respected.
Always practice your fun safely and do not compromise on your beliefs on the subject. If someone wants you to have fun in a way that you don’t feel comfortable with, it’s okay to walk away. Feeling safe and feeling heard when it comes to your body is a right and experience everyone deserves, and if you feel that is being violated, walk away because you are better off.
It’s Okay to Say “No”
You don’t have to do everything on your trip. Sometimes, it’s okay to stay behind and be with yourself. Alone time is vital when we are constantly surrounded by other people because alone time allows us to hear ourselves think and check in with ourselves. If you are feeling like relaxing then relax, and you may find someone wants to stay behind with you.
Not everyone wants to rage all the time, so giving yourself and others that space is healthy.
Avoid Tense Conversations
People disagree on just about everything. If someone is steering the conversation into a place that you don’t want it to go, it’s okay to walk away. Whether it is politics, religion, or any other sensitive topic, if you don’t want to talk about it then leave the situation. No one will blame you for wanting to keep the peace, and the biggest peace you are going to achieve is the one with yourself by not getting yourself heated up over a conversation that will most likely go nowhere.
The holidays are a time of coming together and sharing love. Love starts with ourselves, and we must show up as our best selves for other people, and taking the time to work on that and respect that during the holiday season is healthy and necessary.