SOMA Living December 2022

DON’T TRUST THE MIRROR

Maureen Kritzer-Lange, MSW, LCSW

The holiday season can be a stressful time for many people with high emotional stakes. In my practice, patients talk about how celebrations at family gatherings and parties -with an emphasis on eating and drinking - adds overwhelming layers of stress, fear, and anxiety. It’s especially painful to those who struggle with self-esteem, weight, eating issues, and negative body image. There is always hope and the holidays can be joyful. With self-care strategies and careful planning, you can manage the abundance of food choices and holiday treats even while being overscheduled or feeling out of control. A few tips: 1)Practice mindfulness - or taking a “time out”- through meditation, journaling, taking a walk, or listening to music. 2)Focus on your breath. This can go a long way to help decrease stress and anxiety. 3)Take time for yourself. It can be challenging but well worth the effort. Try to schedule “me time” and make an appointment with yourself to help maintain emotional balance. 4)Plan your meals ahead of time and eat regularly. Don’t skip meals in anticipation of what you are going to eat at a holiday gathering. 5)Stay connected with positive friends, family, your therapist or a support group. 6)Remember to be flexible in your thinking, especially when setting expectations. 7)Be kind to yourself and try to calm those perfectionist ideals and critical thoughts. Above all else, find moments to savor, take some slow deep breaths, and treat yourself with the same kindness and compassion you give others throughout this holiday season.

Looking for a past issue of SOMA LIVING? Check out our library! SomaLivingMagazine.com 973-313-1691 maureen@donttrustthemirror.com www.donttrusthemirror.com

Maureen Kritzer-Lange, MSW, LCSW Long time Maplewood resident. Listen to her podcast at HTTPS://RB.GY/BLOOHZ

Jennifer.McManus@cbmoves.com @jennifermcmanus

DECEMBER 2022 | SOMA LIVING 23

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