Why Are the Holidays So Stressful?
Before we dive into solutions, let’s take a moment to understand why the holidays often feel more overwhelming than joyful. High Expectations: Society sets the bar high. From perfectly decorated homes to Instagram-worthy meals, the pressure to create “the perfect holiday” can feel suffocating. Overcommitment: Holiday parties, school events, family traditions—it’s easy to say “yes” to everything, leaving little room for rest or reflection. Financial Strain: Gift-giving, travel, and holiday meals can quickly add up, creating financial stress that lingers well into the new year. Emotional Triggers: The holidays can bring up feelings of loneliness,…
Holiday Stress Getting to you?
It’s HoHoHo time, right? Or maybe not!? Ah, the holidays—a time for joy, togetherness, and celebration. Or so the story goes. In reality, this season often brings a whirlwind of stress: endless shopping lists, packed schedules, heavier-than-usual traffic, financial pressures, family dynamics, and an overwhelming sense of “not enough time.” Does this sound familiar? If so, you’re not alone. Even though I love all the colors, the décor, and the anticipation of this holiday season, it can be a lot! I take joy in decorating the inside and outside of my house. I love seeing…
Say Yes to Happiness: Day 2’s Gratitude Offer Is Here
Don’t miss this exclusive Black Friday deal! “Gratitude is a powerful catalyst for happiness. It’s the spark that lights a fire of joy in your soul.” – Amy Collette Yesterday, I shared my reflections on gratitude and how it has the power to shift our thoughts, emotions, and even our lives. I hope it inspired you to reflect on the little (and big!) things you’re thankful for. If you missed it, here is the link to read all about it and watch the video I made for you. Today, I want to keep the gratitude…
Why Keep A Gratitude Journal?
Why Keep a Gratitude Journal? Spending just 10-15 minutes a day writing in a gratitude journal can transform your outlook on life. Research shows that consistent gratitude practices make people happier and healthier. Journaling is one of the simplest ways to bring this positive habit into your daily routine. Here’s how keeping a gratitude journal can enrich your life: Celebrate Achievements: Journaling helps you notice and appreciate both big and small accomplishments. Boost Happiness: When you focus on the good, your perspective shifts. Journaling trains your mind to notice and savor positive moments. Improve Health:…
What a Cyclone Taught Me About Gratitude
(photo taken by Puget Sound Energy) “Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it” William Arthur Ward This week in the US, we have our holiday, Thanksgiving. And, it’s generally considered a time to reflect on what we are thankful for. For me it’s particularly pertinent this year, as we just experienced a rare storm system called a cyclone bomb here in the Pacific Northwest that left about ½ million people without power and many with severe damage from the wind and trees falling. My husband and…
Finding Joy During the (Stressful) Holiday Season: Tips for Peace & Happiness
“I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put together.” – John Burroughs In my most recent emails, I’ve been writing about ways to establish new habits you want to incorporate into your life in order get rid of the ones that are no longer serving you. Establishing new empowering habits supports you to feel your best self in mind, body and spirit. It really is through these small action steps, when repeated, habits are formed and thus, old habits can be replaced with these new ones you create.…