Tonya Hand, MPsyc Surging Vibrations Lifestyle LLC - October 2024
As the days grow shorter and colder, many of us experience a dip in mood and energy. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a common response to the changing season, while the pressure of the holidays can amplify feelings of stress, loneliness, and anxiety. But there is some hope with simple tools like daily affirmations that can help us stay grounded and maintain a higher-conscious mindset, that can ease the emotional challenges of this time of year that we can experience.
What are Affirmations and How can They Help us?
Affirmations are positive statements that, when repeated consistently, help rewire our thinking patterns. they encourage a shift from negative self-talk to a more empowered, hopeful, and solution-focused mindset. For those affected by SAD or holiday blues, daily affirmations can be a powerful way to keep your thoughts centered on positivity and wellness.
How to Use These Affirmations
Over the next 21 days, I invite you to set aside a few minutes each morning to repeat the affirmations of the day. You can say it aloud, write in a journal or reflect on it during a quiet moment. Allow these words to uplift your spirit, shift your focus, and remind you of your inner strength as we head into the holiday season.
The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination" –Carl Rogers
Week 1 : Be Open to Inner Peace
"I Choose peace and calm over chaos and stress."
- Start your day with this reminder to prioritize your mental health, no matter how busy
the holiday season may get.
"I trust in my ability to handle whatever today brings."
- No matter what comes your way, you have the tools to get through it.
"I am grounded and centered."
- Visualize yourself as steady, grounded, and unaffected by external pressures.
"I am in control of my emotions, and I choose peace"
- You can acknowledge your feelings without being overwhelmed by them.
"I welcome this day with calm, clarity, and focus."
- Affirm that each day is a fresh start, no matter how yesterday felt.
"I release tension and embrace relaxation."
- Before bed, release any built-up stress from the day.
"I breathe in peace and breathe out stress."
- A simple breathing practice paired with this affirmation can help center your mind.
Week 2 : Practice Self-Compassion
"I am kind and gentle with myself"
- This time of year can be harsh, but you don't have to be. Treat yourself with care.
"I am doing my best, and that is enough."
- Give yourself absolute grace and recognize that your efforts are valuable as well.
"I honor my need for rest and rejuvenation."
- Balance the holiday activities with moments of rest to maintain your well-being.
"I am worthy of love and joy, even when I don't feel my best."
- Sadness or anxiety don't make you any less deserving of joy and contentment.
"I release guilt and allow myself to experience joy."
- Let go of any guilt about not being 'enough' and embrace the present moment.
"I forgive myself for past mistakes and look forward with hope."
- Free yourself from past regrets that often resurface during the holidays.
"I treat myself with the same kindness I offer to others."
- If you'd comfort a friend in your situation, don't forget to extend the same kindness to yourself as well.
Week 3 : Positivity and Gratitude Matters
"I am grateful for the little moments of joy today."
- Focus on the small, positive moments that can easily be overlooked.
"I choose to focus on what I can control, and let go of the rest."
- When life feels overwhelming, remind yourself that your power lies in your response of any given situation or matter.
"I have the power to change my thoughts, and I choose positivity."
- Shift from limiting thoughts to a more growth mindset that uplift and empower.
"I embrace the beauty of this season, no matter how it looks."
- Even when fall and winter feel gloomy, look for the beauty in nature and quiet moments.
"I am capable of creating joy, even in small ways."
- You can bring happiness into your life through simple acts, whether that is making a warm drink or listening to your favorite music.
"I am open to love and joy in unexpected ways."
- Stay open to positive experiences that may come out of nowhere.
"I trust that better days are ahead of me"
- As the season progresses, just know that brighter days, both literal and metaphorical, are coming.
As the holidays approach us, it is really easy to get caught up in the hustle and forget to care for our emotional well-being. By taking time to incorporate these affirmations into your daily routine, you are taking proactive steps to stay grounded, centered, calm, and higher-minded. This also serves as a reminder that you have the power to choose peace, no matter the challenges that arise.
Let this season be one of self-care, self-love, self-compassion, and conscious thought, as you get through both the joys and difficulties with grace. And remember that if the feelings of SAD or the holiday blues become too overwhelming, don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional. You don't have to face this season alone, support is always, always available to you.
Need more tips or personalized support?
Click here to Join our community for resources on self-care, wellness, and mental health, or contact me for a consultation. Let’s work together to ensure this season is one of healing and joy!
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