Mar 31, 2025
WRITTEN BY: BRITNEY VINCENT, LPC Spring is a season of new starts—a time when nature wakes up, flowers bloom, and the world feels fresh again. But spring cleaning isn’t just for our homes; you can learn how to spring clean your life too.
Clearing out physical clutter creates space for peace in our homes. Letting go of emotional and mental clutter can also makes room for joy, clear thoughts, and purpose. This season is an invitation to reflect: What is adding value to my life? What is simply taking up space? What is holding me back from stepping fully into the person I am becoming? Spring reminds us that fresh starts are always possible. Just as nature awakens from winter, we, too, can step into new beginnings.
See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. –Isaiah 43:19
Let’s look at what it means to “spring clean” your life and how how this fresh start can bring peace and joy.
What Does It Mean to “Spring Clean” Your Life?
Spring cleaning your life is about more than organizing a closet—it’s about choosing on purpose, what is serving you and what isn’t. It’s a chance to pause and ask yourself:
- What is draining my energy?
- What is bringing me joy?
- Where am I holding onto things, relationships, or things that no longer align with who I am?
Many times, we keep old habits, heavy ties, or bad thoughts just because they are familiar—without realizing how much they weigh us down. But just as trimming helps a tree grow stronger, letting go of what no longer serves us allows us to grow too.
Identify What Needs Spring Cleaning
A great way to start this process is by making a list. Take a look at things that give you energy, peace, and fulfillment. Then list things that leave you feeling tired, overwhelmed, or stuck.
As you think about this, consider these areas of your life:
- Relationships: Who encourages and lifts me up? Who drains my energy?
- Tasks: Which ones match your goals? Which ones feel like chores?
- Habits: What things help you grow? What keeps you stuck in stress or doubt?
Spring Clean: Let Go of The Clutter
Letting go is hard. Sometimes we hold onto things because they’re familiar. Or perhaps because we don’t want to disappoint others. Maybe we even we fear the unknown. But holding onto the wrong things keeps us from getting what is meant for us.
This spring, give yourself permission to let go of the clutter. Things like:
- Unhealthy relationships – If someone makes you feel unimportant, hurt, or anxious, it is okay to step back. Good ties should feel encouraging and positive, not draining.
- Overwhelming commitments – If your schedule is jam packed with “To-Do”s that leaves little room for joy. Think about where you can say no or set boundaries.
- Unhealthy habits – Whether it’s negative self-talk, putting things off, or always putting others before yourself, look at patterns that keep you stuck. Then take small steps towards change.
- Most importantly—release the guilt that comes with letting go. Just like clearing out clutter makes space for a more peaceful home, letting go of emotional and mental mess makes room for something better.
A Challenge for You
God invites us to step into His grace, letting go of the burdens that weigh us down, just like clearing out the clutter that no longer serves us. Renewal isn’t just about getting rid of what’s old—it’s about making room for the joy, peace, and purpose that God is leading us toward, much like spring cleaning makes space for fresh beginnings and new growth.
This spring, take time to reflect on what’s adding value to your life vs. what’s holding you back. Reflect on what adds value to your life and what holds you back. This spring, write down three things to release and three to embrace. Trust that letting go creates space for the joy, peace, and purpose God intends for you. Spring cleaning isn’t just for your home—it’s for your heart and spirit, too.
Mar 6, 2025
WRITTEN BY: SARAH RIVERA, LPC-S In times of busyness, it’s easy to forget the importance of sleep, but better sleep equals better mental health—it’s that simple. Whether it’s work, family obligations, or financial stress, we often prioritize everything else, leaving our basic needs, including sleep, at the bottom of the list. What’s surprising is how quickly this neglect can affect us—eating habits suffer, sleep patterns get disrupted, and even basic activities like physical movement and breathing can become harder to maintain. Crazy, right?
Why Better Sleep is Essential for Better Mental Health
It’s important to understand the essential role sleep plays in our mental well-being. Think of sleep as the time your body and mind use to recharge. It’s like plugging your devices into a charger—except, in this case, it’s your physical and emotional battery that needs recharging. For adults, men generally need seven or more hours, while women typically require eight or more hours per night. Without enough sleep, we can feel like we’re running on empty, stuck in the yellow zone.
Bad Sleep Equals Bad Mental Health
When we don’t get enough sleep, it can lead to a range of mental and emotional reactions. Sleep loss increases cortisol, the stress hormone, which can cause mood swings, memory problems, trouble focusing, irritability, and even feelings of hopelessness.
Bad sleep habits can worsen mental health symptoms. Poor sleep makes anxiety worse, increases stress, and raises mood swings. It affects thinking, making it harder to focus, remember, or think clearly. It also makes it harder to control emotions, causing irritability and outbursts. Over time, poor sleep makes it more difficult to handle stress and raises the risk of depression.
Simply put, better sleep, better mental health—when we focus on sleep, we improve our well-being, and everything else falls into place.
How to Make Your Sleep Better
If your mind feels foggy, focusing seems impossible, or you’re feeling disconnected from everything around you, it might be time to assess your sleep quality.
Start by tracking how many hours of sleep you’re getting each night. Keep a journal or diary to note when you go to bed and when you actually fall asleep—these two things are very different! Also, take note of how often you wake up during the night and whether your sleep is interrupted. This simple exercise will give you insight into your sleep habits and help identify areas for improvement.
Once you’ve identified patterns, you can begin improving your sleep routine. Here are a few tips to get started:
- Limit liquids before bed: Avoid drinking liquids a couple of hours before going to sleep to prevent waking up in the middle of the night.
- Optimize your sleep environment: Make sure the temperature in your room is comfortable. A cool, quiet space is ideal for sleep.
- Cut out screen time: Turn off all electronic devices at least one hour before bed. The blue light emitted by phones, tablets, and computers can trick your brain into thinking it’s daytime, making it harder to fall asleep. Even if you think using your phone helps you wind down, it’s likely making the problem worse.
- Be consistent: Establish a regular sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day can help regulate your body’s internal clock.
Now, I know habits can be tough to break, but it’s important to start somewhere—why not today? Once you’ve made some changes to your routine, keep tracking your sleep. Pay attention to any shifts in your mood, energy, and ability to concentrate. You might be surprised by the improvements you notice.
Feb 27, 2025
WRITTEN BY: BRITNEY VINCENT, LPC- Sometimes, it’s hard to know your self-worth. Yes, everyone has unique strengths, experiences, and qualities that make them valuable. But why do we compare ourselves to others, doubt our abilities, or feel like we’re not good enough? Understanding your worth can help you feel more confident and create a life that reflects your true self. Here’s how you can start embracing your worth and understanding your own value.
Why Your Self-Worth Matters
To know your self-worth affects every part of your life—from relationships and life choices to self-esteem and personal growth. When you understand your value, you are more likely to:
- Set and maintain healthy boundaries.
- Go after opportunities that match your strengths.
- Feel confident in yourself and your abilities.
- Build stronger, healthier relationships.
When you recognize your worth, you’re able to recognize things that are important to you and start making choices that reflect those values.
How to Recognize Your Self-Worth
We all have different values and strengths—these unique traits shape who we are. Learning what yours are helps you create clear goals on how to reflect them in your daily life.
Here are a few key steps to help you start exploring your values:
1. Identify Your Strengths
Think about what you’re good at—whether it’s being a great listener, problem-solving, or being creative. Write down your strengths to remind yourself of the value you bring.
2. Challenge Negative Self-Talk
Your thoughts shape how you see yourself. If you catch yourself thinking, I’m not good enough or I don’t deserve this, push back. Replace those thoughts with, I have a lot to offer or This is important to me.
3. Stop Comparing Yourself to Others
In today’s world, it’s easy to compare ourselves to others, but your journey is unique to you. Focus on what is important to you and your own growth instead of measuring yourself against someone else.
4. Surround Yourself with Supportive People
The people around you influence how you feel about yourself. Stay close to those who encourage and uplift you. A strong support system can help you see the value you bring and remind you of your worth when you struggle to see it yourself.
Build Confidence in Your Self- Worth
Understanding your worth is the first step—believing in it takes confidence. Here’s how to build it:
- Celebrate your wins: Acknowledge and be proud of your achievements, big or small.
- Take care of yourself: Make time for things that support your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
- Set boundaries: Recognize areas of your life that aren’t supporting your value and set boundaries. Knowing when to say no or take a step back keeps you on track.
- Keep learning and growing: Growth is a lifelong journey. Working on yourself and seeing the progress you make helps reinforce your belief in your abilities.
Your value doesn’t depend on how much you have done or other people’s opinions. Your worth is yours to own—it’s not something you have to prove. By recognizing your strengths, challenging self-doubt, and surrounding yourself with a strong support system, you can strengthen your confidence and embrace your self-worth.
If you’re struggling to recognize and truly know your self-worth and value, counseling can help you explore your strengths and build confidence. At La Luz Counseling, we’re here to help you see and embrace your true value..
Psalm 139:14:
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
Feb 4, 2025
WRITTEN BY: SARAH RIVERA, LPC-S Not all teenage relationships are filled with love and happiness, and uncommon red flags in teen relationships that parents shouldn’t ignore can sometimes be hidden beneath the surface. For many parents, watching their teenager engage in a relationship can be overwhelming. However, concern and worry can quickly arise when you notice subtle warning signs that suggest emotional or psychological harm.
While extreme warning signs like physical abuse or stalking are easier to recognize, some subtle but serious red flags can go unnoticed. This blog highlights uncommon teen relationship warning signs that parents should be aware of.
Extreme Mood Swings After Interactions with Their Partner
Teen moodiness is normal, but sudden, unexplained emotional shifts after talking to their partner may signal an issue. If your teen goes from extremely happy to sad, anxious, or withdrawn right after a call or text, it may indicate emotional manipulation or toxicity in the relationship.
Possessive Jealousy Disguised as “Caring”
Many teens mistake jealousy for love. If your teen’s partner is overly jealous—getting upset when they spend time with friends, demanding constant attention, or pressuring them to cut ties with others—it may be a sign of controlling behavior.
Social Media as a Source of Control
Unhealthy relationships often involve social media conflicts, such as:
- Demanding access to passwords or accounts
- Controlling who they can follow or friend
- Using fake accounts to monitor their partner’s online activity
- Blocking/unblocking as a form of punishment
If your teen’s relationship involves these behaviors, it could indicate a lack of trust and emotional manipulation.
Verbal Insults and Demeaning Comments
Another type of uncommon red flags in teen relationships is the use of negative and hurtful remarks. While outright name-calling is an obvious red flag, subtler verbal insults can be just as damaging. If your teen’s partner frequently makes sarcastic, belittling, or critical remarks that hurt their self-esteem, it could escalate into emotional abuse over time.
Isolation from Family and Friends
A controlling partner may pressure your teen to spend all their time together, discouraging them from seeing family or friends. Signs of unhealthy isolation include:
- Missing out on family events due to relationship pressure
- Being guilt-tripped into spending all their free time with their partner
- Their partner reacting angrily when they socialize with others
Rough Play That Crosses the Line
While playful teasing is normal, roughhousing that leads to bruises or injuries is not. If your teen’s partner consistently uses physical force in a joking way, it could be an early sign of physical boundary violations that may escalate.
Invasion of Privacy and Constant Surveillance
A relationship should have healthy boundaries, but demanding 24/7 access to your teen’s location, phone, or messages is a red flag. Signs of invasive behavior include:
- Expecting constant text replies or FaceTime check-ins
- Getting angry if they don’t respond immediately
- Pressuring them to share passwords or prove their whereabouts
What Parents Can Do
If you notice any of these uncommon red flags in your teens relationship, start a conversation with your teen. Ask open-ended questions and express your concerns without judgment. If needed, seek guidance from a counselor or professional.
By staying alert to unhealthy relationship patterns, you can help your teen recognize the difference between love and control—and guide them toward healthy, respectful connections.
For more resources on recognizing and addressing unhealthy teen relationships, visit Love Is Respect, a national resource dedicated to teen dating violence awareness and prevention.
Jan 29, 2025
WRITTEN BY: JENNIFER PATRICK, LMSW – When you’ve been through tough significant life events, setting mental health goals you can stick to can feel overwhelming. But goals can also be a powerful way to take back control of your life, one step at a time.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
This reminder of God’s care can offer hope as you set goals for healing and emotional well-being.
Why Setting Mental Health Goals Matter
If you’ve experienced mental health challenges, it’s easy to feel stuck or unsure of where to start. Mental health goals give you structure and hope, breaking overwhelming challenges into small, manageable steps.
Instead of vague goals like “I want to feel better”, focus on specific, actionable steps—like journaling for 10 minutes a day or attending a weekly therapy session. These small, meaningful changes add up over time.
How to Set Mental Health Goals That Work
Healing isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey, but using the SMART method can help you set goals that are both achievable and sustainable:
✅ Specific: Define your goal clearly. Instead of “I want to feel less anxious,” say “I will practice deep breathing for five minutes each morning.”
✅ Measurable: Track your progress with a journal, checklist, or app to stay motivated.
✅ Achievable: Keep it realistic. If you’re struggling, start small—even one minute of mindfulness is progress.
✅ Relevant: Choose goals that align with your healing journey. If you’re working on self-esteem, try writing one positive affirmation daily.
✅ Time-bound: Set a deadline. Instead of “I’ll start meditating,” say “I’ll do a five-minute meditation three times this week.”
What to Do When It Feels Hard
Sticking to mental health goals isn’t always easy, and that’s okay. If you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or discouraged, keep in mind:
- Adjusting your goals—scale them down if needed. Healing is about progress, not perfection
- Practicing self-compassion—be kind to yourself, especially on tough days.
- Seeking support—a therapist can help you set realistic goals and provide encouragement when you need it.
You’re Not Alone
Healing takes time, but every small step counts. Whether you’re seeking therapy, prioritizing self-care, or simply learning to be kind to yourself, you are making progress. Setting mental health goals you can stick to is something you can begin to do today.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your healing journey, La Luz Counseling is here to help. Contact us today to start setting goals that support your mental health and well-being.
Jan 20, 2025
WRITTEN BY: Britney Vincent, LPC
As we start a new year, it’s a great time to think about what we want to change in our lives. Achieve Your New Year’s Goals and Improve Your Mental Health by recognizing that how we feel and think plays a big role in making those changes happen. Counseling is a helpful tool that can help you achieve your New Year’s goals. At La Luz Counseling, we’re here to support you every step of the way and help you achieve your goals this year. Here are a few things to consider when setting your goals this year.
Why Your New Year’s Goals Matter in the New Year
Including mental health in your New Year’s resolutions is an important tool to set yourself up for success. Goals like reducing stress, building stronger relationships, or boosting confidence can make a big difference in your daily life.
Taking care of your mental health helps you be on the right track. When we’re in the right headspace, we feel more capable of taking steps toward other goals, like improving our physical health, career, or personal relationships.
Counseling and Your New Year’s Goals
Counseling is a great way to work on your goals. A counselor can offer support, help you problem-solve, and provide tools to handle challenges.
Counselors can:
- Break big goals into smaller, manageable steps.
- Help you understand what’s really causing your struggles.
- Teach you ways to adapt and handle tough situations.
- Help keep you on track to achieve your goals
How Counseling Can Help You Improve Your Mental Health
Counseling is a powerful tool to help you work through common mental health challenges. Here are some ways it can help:
- Managing anxiety: A counselor can teach you techniques to calm your mind, reduce stress, and regain focus.
- Improving mood: If you’re feeling down or overwhelmed, counseling can help you explore your emotions and find positive ways to cope.
- Building self-esteem: Counseling helps you recognize your strengths and develop a more positive view of yourself.
- Strengthening relationships: Learn communication and conflict-resolution skills to improve your connections with others.
Tips to Start Counseling This Year
Starting counseling might seem scary, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are three tips to help you get started:
- Look for the right counselor: Find someone who understands your needs and makes you feel comfortable. Don’t be afraid to “shop around”—the relationship you build with your counselor is an important part of the process.
- Be patient with yourself: Change takes time, and small improvements can lead to big results. Your counselor can help you recognize the small victories along the way, and find ways to adapt when things aren’t working
- Explore your goals: Work with your counselor to create a plan for what you want to work on. Share your worries, past experiences, or specific areas you want to improve, like managing stress, building confidence, or strengthening relationships.
The new year is a chance to take care of yourself and focus on what really matters to you. Counseling can give you the tools and support to reach your goals and feel your best. At La Luz Counseling, we make starting counseling easy and welcoming. Whether it’s your first time or you’ve tried counseling before, we’re here to help you shine and live your best life.
If you’re ready to start, we’re ready to help. Let’s make this year your best one yet!
Jan 6, 2025
WRITTEN BY: Sarah Rivera, LPC-S
“Happy Holidays,” “Merry Christmas,” “Happy New Year.” The season was filled with joy, cheer, and celebrations—or so it seems for everyone but you. What happens when the season leaves you with post-holiday blues? When the holidays that are supposed to feel magical leaves you feeling empty, sad, or even resentful? What happens when the season fills you with posts-holiday blues and sadness? This article will review post-holiday sadness and how to recover from post-holiday blues. Here are three common reasons why the post-holiday blues may creep in—and how to recover from holiday sadness.
1. Feeling Sadness After the Holidays
The holidays highlight the value of togetherness, but they can also magnify feelings of isolation and sadness. Whether you’re physically separated from loved ones, experiencing strained relationships, or lacking connection, loneliness can hit hard after celebrations end.
How to Recover:
- Volunteer your time: Many organizations need help year-round, not just during the holidays. Whether it’s assisting at a food bank, mentoring, or offering administrative support, volunteering can bring a sense of purpose and connection.
- Join a community group: Look for local meetups or interest-based groups to connect with others who share similar hobbies or goals.
2. Overcoming Family Conflict During the Holidays
Family gatherings often bring stress, tension, and unresolved conflict, especially during the holidays. This time tends to highlight even the smallest cracks in family relationships. When gaping holes exist in family systems, the strain becomes unavoidable, making it hard to find joy. Emotional reactivity, past trauma, and dysfunction often resurface, leaving lasting effects on relationships and mental health. It’s especially difficult when everyone gathers, and the emotional distance becomes impossible to ignore.
How to Recover:
- Reflect on boundaries: Consider what changes you can make next year to protect your peace. For example, limit the time you spend at family events or plan to have an independent celebration.
- Practice self-care: After an emotionally charged holiday season, focus on activities that help you recharge, such as journaling, exercising, or talking to a therapist.
3. Coping with Grief and Loss After the Holidays
The holidays can intensify feelings of grief and loss, whether you’re missing a loved one, mourning a relationship, or grieving an unfulfilled hope. Watching commercials and hearing songs about families enjoying their time reconnecting and reuniting can feel so bitter when your heart is missing a loved one. Seeing others celebrate milestones or spend time with family can make your loss feel even more profound.
How to Recover:
- Find a way to Memorialize: Honor the memory of your loved one by lighting a candle, displaying a special photo, or sharing their stories with others.
- Seek support: Connect with grief support groups or a therapist to process your feelings and find comfort in knowing you’re not alone.
Here are a few tips that you can try today. But if you’re feeling like you need a few more, take a read HERE. There are tons of supportive articles out there, so don’t go at this alone. Your feelings are warranted and valid. When in doubt, talk it out.
Dec 14, 2024
WRITTEN BY: JENNIFER STOUTE
Trauma and stress have a way of embedding themselves into our bodies and minds, influencing how we think, feel, and respond to the world. These unresolved experiences can affect our physical health, mental well-being, and even our daily choices. The good news is that healing from trauma and creating healthy habits is possible—starting with small, intentional steps and the right support. Whether it’s through therapy, movement, better relationships, or leaning on faith, healing from trauma and creating healthy habits can happen for you too. With the right tools and a commitment to change, you can overcome the patterns that keep you stuck and start building a more balanced, peaceful life.
How Trauma Can Show Up in Your Body
When something overwhelming happens in your life, your body instinctively kicks into survival mode—fight, flight, or freeze. While this response protects us in the moment, unresolved trauma can leave our bodies stuck in that heightened state, even long after the event has passed.
Maybe you’ve noticed it:
- Tight shoulders that never seem to loosen up
- A racing mind when you try to relax
- Feeling “on edge” for no clear reason
- Breathing is off
These are just a few ways trauma can get “trapped” in the body. And when we don’t address it, we often turn to unhealthy habits—like avoiding exercise, overeating, isolating ourselves, or numbing out with Netflix or social media—to cope.
But those habits, while comforting in the short term, can keep us stuck in the long run. Healing begins when we recognize these patterns and start creating space for new ones.
Healing Starts with the Right Tools
Therapy is one of the most effective ways to process trauma and start creating healthier habits. At La Luz Counseling, we use approaches like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) to help work through traumatic experiences. Here are some other extra tips that could help. We also offer Christian and biblical support during sessions, incorporating faith-based practices like prayer or scripture, but only if this aligns with your personal goals. Here are some other extra tips that could help. Therapy is powerful, but healing doesn’t stop there.
Healthy Habits for Healing
Changing your daily habits can help your mind and body work together toward recovery. Here are some small steps that can make a big difference:
- Get Moving: Exercise doesn’t have to mean hitting the gym every day. It can be as simple as walking your dog, dancing in your kitchen, or stretching before bed. Movement helps release stress and boosts your mood.
- Spend Time OutsideSunshine and fresh air can do wonders for your mental health. Even a few minutes outside each day can help you feel calmer and more grounded.
- Eat to Feel Good Food fuels not just your body but your brain. Eating more whole foods—like fruits, veggies, and lean proteins—can help stabilize your mood and energy.
- Build Your Support System We weren’t made to do life alone. Surround yourself with people who encourage you and remind you of your worth. And don’t be afraid to let others in when you’re struggling—there’s strength in asking for help.
- Find Moments of Stillness Life can feel overwhelming, but making time for quiet—whether it’s through prayer, journaling, or simply sitting outside—can help you reconnect with yourself and God.
Healing from trauma and creating healthy habits is possible, and it starts with small, intentional steps. Whether you’re ready to explore therapy or simply want to begin with a healthier habit, we’re here to support you.
At La Luz Counseling, our mission is to walk alongside you as you move toward the light—toward healing, growth, and the life you were created to live. You don’t have to stay stuck. Reach out today, and let’s start this journey together.
You are loved, seen, and capable of change. Don’t wait—take the first step.
Nov 23, 2024
WRITTEN BY: Sabrina Del Angel LPC-Associate Supervised by Dr. Maria Haiyasoso LPC-S
The holidays are here, and with them come the lights, traditions, and… stress? Yes, for many of us, this “joyful” season can feel like a whirlwind. Between gift shopping, family gatherings, and financial strain, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You’re not alone if you’re already feeling the holiday hustle and pressure! Here are some easy ways to stay grounded during holiday stress and find peace in the season.
Embrace the Messiness
Holidays have a way of stirring up expectations. We want everything to go smoothly, for family to get along, and for every dish to come out Instagram-worthy. But holidays rarely go perfectly. What if, instead, we embraced the imperfect moments? The burned cookies, the forgotten gift, even the disagreements—they’re all part of the season, too. Sometimes, letting go of perfection can be the most freeing way to enjoy the holidays. Instead of trying to control every detail, try to enjoy the little moments that make the season unique.
Planning Ahead to Reduce Stress
Many of us dive head-first into holiday prep, only to end up frantically wrapping gifts at the last minute. This year, consider a bit of planning ahead. Try jotting down a quick calendar for events and to-dos so that you’re not caught off guard. Setting mini-goals—like finishing gift shopping by a certain date—can give you a sense of control. Just a little organization can make a big difference, reducing that last-minute scramble and helping you feel more relaxed.
Keep an Eye on Your Budget
Overspending can add stress during and after the holidays. Try setting a budget early and sticking to it. Consider meaningful, low-cost options, like making a favorite family recipe or crafting a photo album. Often, thoughtful gifts mean more than anything bought in a store.
Prioritize Self-Care, Even for a Few Minutes
During the holiday rush, self-care might feel like an afterthought. But taking care of yourself helps you better enjoy the season. Try to keep some routines in place, like getting enough sleep or taking a few minutes each day to breathe deeply. Even stepping outside for a walk or doing a quick stretching exercise can help recharge you.
Rainbow breathing is a simple technique you can do anywhere—just inhale slowly and imagine a rainbow of colors, and exhale, releasing any tension with each breath. It’s quick, effective, and works for kids too if you want a family activity!
Setting Boundaries, Guilt-Free
It’s easy to feel pressured to attend every gathering and make everyone happy. But spreading yourself too thin can lead to burnout. Give yourself permission to say no if you need a quiet evening or want to spend time with close family. Protecting your energy allows you to enjoy the events that matter most, without overextending yourself.
Stay Grounded in Small Moments
When the holiday season feels overwhelming, consider grounding yourself in small sensory experiences can bring calm. Pause to savor the scent of cinnamon in a warm drink, the softness of a cozy blanket, or the gentle glow of holiday lights. These moments of mindfulness help you reconnect to the present, creating a sense of peace amid the hustle and bustle.
Remember, peace and joy aren’t found in perfection but in presence. But by staying mindful and applying these 6 easy ways to stay grounded during the holiday stress, it can help you greatly. As Philippians 4:6-7 beautifully reminds us: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Let this season be one of connection, gratitude, and hope.
Nov 7, 2024
Thinking of November, most of us think of Thanksgiving and the holidays. But what if the holidays don’t feel like the “Thanksgiving spirit”? It’s hard to feel thankful when things are tough. Especially when the holidays seem to be getting us down rather than up. How to choose gratitude in difficult times can be hard to figure out, so this blog will talk more about choosing it, even when you don’t feel like it.
Why Gratitude is Difficult
It’s important to acknowledge that holding onto 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus,” isn’t always that easy. Choosing gratitude can be tough. Family dynamics may be strained, finances may be tight, and year-end goals may remain unmet. It’s essential to have a gentle but honest conversation with yourself: even when we don’t feel like it, choosing gratitude is, indeed, a choice.
How to Express Gratefulness to God
Now, let’s consider appreciation to God. If choosing gratitude toward yourself and others feels difficult, perhaps choosing gratitude toward God is a bit simpler. It’s essential to take the time to appreciate and give thanks to God for guiding you through different seasons. While you may not feel like it today, there have been times when you have overcome challenges. The scripture encourages us: “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” — Psalm 100:4. Gratitude can manifest through spending time in prayer, highlighting the ways God has shown up for you—in your life, your children’s health, your job, and the roof over your head. The things you feed are the things you grow, so if you nourish an attitude of gratitude, it will surely flourish.
How to Choose Gratitude with Yourself
So, how do you do it? First, start with expressing appreciation to yourself. You can choose to be grateful for your own efforts and accomplishments. Take a moment to reflect on your personal growth over the years, even if it feels unnatural. Practice self-appreciation by acknowledging your accomplishments, celebrating simple victories throughout the day, and expressing thankfulness for having navigated difficult times so far.
How to Show Appreciation to Others
Now, express appreciation to others. We often treat others based on how we feel about ourselves. When we feel thankful for ourselves, it becomes easier to express appreciation to others. Choosing to have gratitude toward others, even when you don’t feel like it, can be challenging. But it can start with something small: appreciate acts of kindness, leave a handwritten note, or offer a sincere “thank you.”
Choose Gratitude: Think, Feel, and Act
When we think grateful thoughts, we feel grateful emotions, and we begin to act in a more grateful way. Before you can express these attitudes of gratitude, it’s important to intentionally focus on and choose gratitude, even when you don’t feel like it. Reflect on positive moments, thoughts, and times when things have gone well. This will naturally inspire thankful emotions and feelings. Remember, feelings listen to thoughts, so choose wisely. As you do this, watch how you begin to act and move in a more grateful direction.
“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” — Colossians 3:17.
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