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Special Thanks To Yuko Ohigashi
of Japan for generously allowing use
of her original, copyrighted
compositions on our site!
Copyright (c) 2001
Yuko Ohigashi. 
Used with permission.

Many look forward to holidays as magical, special times, recalling wonderful memories from childhood celebrations. For others, however, this isn’t the case. If there were disappointments, tragedy or conflict during past Thanksgiving or Christmas holidays, future expectations are affected.

Many, through death or divorce, will be alone for the first time on the holidays this year. They may experience depression or feelings of hopelessness; possibly envisioning a continued lifetime of similar holiday seasons to come. Others experience stress...increased time pressures, expectations, and financial pressures. This year may even be a time of transition: from child/young adult to parent; when you wonder where the time, money & energy will come from to put on a dazzling show. Consider, as well, a biological condition called Seasonal Affective Disorder (or SAD), triggered by the amount of sunlight exposure. December 21st is the year’s shortest day and many people with SAD feel depressed, having no idea their body is telling them to hibernate, slow down or withdraw. Many with this condition report ‘feeling down’ or ‘having the blues’. Symptoms may begin as early as October and last, for some, until the spring.

For those where biology is not a factor, there are ways to actively beat the holiday blues by doing things a little differently

1. Admit there may be a problem.

Enough with the old "next year I’m sure I’ll do better". If you have the blues, be honest with yourself!

2. Set Realistic Expectations!

Do you really have time or energy to host a special dinner or weekend gathering? Are you trying to keep up with the Jones’ or will you be honest about what to do without feeling run down? Do you need to attend all those parties or every church function? Do you really need to impress others to feel good about yourself?

3. Get Rid Of Guilt!

Everyone depending on you? Feel others will be upset if you don’t do what is expected? Warn them NOW! Things are going to be different this year...it’s OK to cut back, ask for help or simply change business or family ‘traditions’ & still have a great time.

4. ‘De-Commercialize’ the holidays!

Money can’t buy you love. Return to family value activities. Community outreach programs assisting those in need is rewarding to both those served and those serving. End the commercial madness which Christmas has become for many. Let others know now you may not participate in gift exchanges or events if this has been an area of past over-extension.

5. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF!!

Moderate Exercise—the best weapon for the blues!   MAKE yourself walk 30 minutes a day.   Get sleep, but don’t oversleep...you want to feel rested, not groggy.   Eat right.   Avoid Christmas fats, sugars & that central nervous system depressant, alcohol.

6. Try something new!

Cut your own tree.   Make wacky Christmas cards with the kids using things around the house.   Serve at a homeless shelter.   Do something kind for an elderly friend. Take a minute to laugh with a neighbor in your yard!   Capture the real spirit of Christmas.

7. Don’t walk a mile to get bit by a dog.

Why drive 300 miles to be with people who increase depression or create feelings of inferiority? Many go each year to friends or family gatherings or parties, hoping ‘this year’ things will be better. If it hasn’t happened in all these years, it’s unrealistic to expect it to magically happen this year. Go where family and friends appreciate you,  enjoy your company and will be a positive influence for you...or just stay home and begin some enjoyable traditions for yourself & your own family!

8. Renew your inner spirit!

We oftentimes become so caught up in the pace of the season, that we often forget the value of quiet times needed to renew our inner spirit. Christians may focus on their faith at this special time of the year and attend inspirational services. Others may follow family traditions which bring peace, such as being with those of the same faith at their synagogue, sharing with others feelings of love and kindness shown during the year or even just enjoying quiet moments alone meditating.

These suggestions may be difficult to do; there is always a price to pay if disappointing others or changing routines. Instead of attempting to live an unrealistic movie-image of Christmas this year, experience the season as one of peace; kick back, relax and find time to renew one’s inner self...and take charge of building wonderful memories and relationships for years to come!

Background Song: "My Christmas Song for Jesus"   Composed by Yuko Ohigashi

Click the Play button on your MIDI plug-in to hear or stop the MIDI file.
Copyright (c) 2001 Yuko Ohigashi.  Used with permission.