11 Affirmations to Expel Holiday Stress
There’s a lot to be worried about this year with the global pandemic. The uncertainty that surrounds this particular holiday season can be unnerving and stressful, more than ever before.
There may be a million questions racing through your mind right now.
Will we be able to make Christmas “feel” the same even if we all can’t be together?
Will the gifts I’ve carefully selected for loved ones get delivered on time?
What can I do to make sure Christmas still feels special?
We get it. We’re all in that mindset right now!
Words are a powerful tool. There is no doubt about it. That’s why we’ve tailored affirmations specifically to help you expel some of your holiday stress this year. Try repeating some of these affirmations when you feel a wave of anxiety taking over or when you feel stuck in a bubble of stress.
These will help you see that there is still a lot to be grateful for despite the turbulent year we’ve had.
11 Powerful Affirmations to Expel Holiday Stress
1. “When I feel overwhelmed, I stop & be mindful.”
Look around you and notice what lifts your mood. Maybe it’s the beautiful sheet of fresh snow covering your lawn or your neighbor’s holiday decorations.
This can stop a cycle of worry quickly. Be mindful, and focus on your present surroundings rather than your worries.
2. “This situation is temporary.”
This can help you feel a sense of relief because it puts an end to this uncertain time in your mind. If you feel overwhelmed with fear about getting sick or things not going back to normal right away, use this affirmation to help you feel at ease.
3. “I don’t have to live up to anyone’s expectations.”
This will help you let go of all the “shoulds” that may be placed on you or that you may be placing on yourself.
Regarding social gatherings, you should only do what you are comfortable with regardless of other people’s opinions!
4. “I am here, breathing in & breathing out.”
Using some deep breathing, this affirmation will allow your mind to have one simple focus instead of going in a million directions. If you feel chaotic or frenetic energy, use this, and you will regain a sense of calm.
We can only be here, in our current moment.
5. “I don’t have to keep it all together.”
You are allowed to have feelings, and if you feel like crying or don’t have the energy to be chipper, that’s totally okay. You can experience what you’re feeling without feeling guilt or having to fake it.
Spending the holidays alone, or with a small group of people? Make sure to read: How to Overcome Holiday Loneliness
6. “I deserve rest & peace.”
There is often pressure that goes along with tradition at the holidays, but this year, more than ever, is when you should stay true to your own heart and do what you want.
Your mental and physical health is more important than the four virtual “gatherings” you have planned if you’re truly not up to it. Be honest with yourself and those that you love in terms of what you need this holiday season.
7. “I am healthy. My loved ones are healthy.”
Unfortunately, this might not be true for every single one of us. That being said, if you are currently healthy, and so are those that you love the most, this is an affirmation to repeat when you’re feeling bogged down in stress.
8. “I am calm. This moment will pass.”
Sometimes life can feel like “too much,” especially with everything we’ve seen on the news and social media. Try turning off your screens and using this affirmation.
9. “I allow the Universe to uplift my spirits.”
If you’re feeling isolated, try connecting to people by walking outside, calling someone, or watching an inspiring movie with an uplifting themed. This affirmation will help you start to shift energy using your intention.
10. “I choose a positive thought in each moment.”
This is a powerful affirmation to get you through those tough holiday gatherings where everyone knows not to talk about sensitive topics, but eventually, someone does it anyway. Use this anytime you feel negative, and it will make a difference.
11. “I am not alone.”
Although we may be physically apart this year, we must take comfort in the fact that we can all relate on a larger, collective level. Chances are, someone is feeling what you are feeling, and simply knowing that can bring some ease.
Quick Tips to Return to the Present Moment
This year, we may be wishing we could fast forward into 2021, but we can be freer from worry if we come back fully to the present.
Here are a couple of ideas to help you live in the moment to keep things more simple and joyful:
- Use one of the affirmations above by writing it three times or saying it three times.
- Try tapping your body from head to toe to bring your awareness back to your body.
- Do some yoga or go for a walk and listen to calming music that slows your mind down.
- Try meditative cooking. This is simply when you cook and focus on what you’re doing, as you’re doing it. No phones allowed!
- Breathwork is a great and completely free way to lower anxiety. You can use essential oils while engaging in breathwork.
This holiday season, we hope you find some comfort in these resources as we navigate “the new normal.”
If you’re struggling deeply with anxiety, depression, or isolation, you can text the free crisis text line or call the National Alliance on Mental Health at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) and speak to a professional who can further assist you. Love and light!
Related article: How to Zen Out in the Holiday Chaos
