Holiday Note

Wishing you and yours a joyful and relaxing holiday season! As we enter into the busyness of the next couple weeks, I wanted to take a moment to share some ways to close out 2017 with an open heart and present mind.

Give:Tis the season of giving! In the midst of wrapping and opening gifts and presents, pause to cherish all the reasons YOU have to be grateful. With your children, encourage them to do the same. Look for ways to give to those in need, through a toy drive or soup kitchen. Practicing gratitude and volunteering are associated with many health benefits including: lower blood pressure, better self-esteem, less depression, less stress, greater happiness, and even a longer life!

Connect:For many of us, the holiday season allows us quality time to spend time with loved ones. Notice the ways connecting with others can help you recharge and experience a positive outlook! Set an intention for 2017 to remember this simple and powerful “tool” to combating stress. Numerous studies have proven that social connection is vital to maintaining our mental and physical health.  

Reflect:The end of the year presents an opportunity to look back on 2017. Ask yourself, what are you most proud of? What have you accomplished? What may be left unfinished? Set intentions for next year to continue personal growth. Research shows that setting a goal helps us achieve what we want and even just the process of goal setting can lead to increased happiness.

Carry on the Tradition:We have ample opportunities around the holidays to continue or create family traditions. When you think of your own childhood and think of the season, what do you remember the most? How can you pass these traditions and customs down to the next generation or co-create new rituals for your own family? Maintaining and creating family traditions can promote intergenerational connection and promote feelings of being grounded and focused.

Play:Experiencing the wonder and joy of the holiday season can be for us adults too! Take a break from “doing” and join your children by getting outside, staying active, and playing games. Spontaneity keeps us youthful, energized, and keeps our relationships lively and fun!

I feel so privileged to know each and every one of you. Happy Holidays!

Jennifer Berry Wang, LMFT