Sober Holiday Tip Fifteen - Blah? Humbug!

This morning I woke up to my husband's alarm and watched as he dressed for work. It was weird seeing him back in his routine after having him home for a good part of December (he had a lot of vacation time built up!) I walked him to the door and then went to the living room to turn on the Christmas tree lights. It seemed silly to do for just me and my dog and cats, and I sat down with coffee, looked at the tree and felt a bit "blah".

After the festive season between Thanksgiving and Christmas, with all the planning and activities, it is normal to feel a little blue today. The excitement of the holidays is over, and we are left with returning to our regular routines. Staying sober through the holidays means not only during parties, but also when things get quiet and we're left alone with our thoughts.

There are several things you can do though to help beat the post-Christmas blues -

1. Lift your spirits is by keeping in touch with friends and family. I felt really good reconnecting with some people through "Seasons Greetings" posts on the internet and through regular postal mail holiday cards. I'm making a vow to plan get-togethers with loved ones, whether it's a movie night, dinner, or just a casual hangout. Surrounding yourself with the people you care about can help you feel more connected and less lonely.

2. Focus on self-care. Take some time to pamper yourself, whether it's by indulging in a relaxing bubble bath, getting a massage, or treating yourself to a new book or movie. I know I've been running around like crazy for the past few weeks and some down time sounds nice! It's crucial to prioritize your mental health and wellbeing, especially during times when you're feeling down.

3. Try to stay positive and maintain an optimistic outlook. Remember that the holiday season will come around again, and there are plenty of other things to look forward to in the meantime. By staying mindful, practicing self-care, and surrounding yourself with positivity, you can beat the blues and start the new year off on a high note!

Tomorrow is Tip Number Sixteen!