Suppose you have been recently divorced or are about to end your marriage. In that case, the holiday season is probably a difficult time of year, especially for those adjusting to significant changes in their life. You may have always spent every major holiday with your children and extended family but find yourself sad around this time of year since it is a reminder of your unsuccessful marriage. The holidays do not have to be depressing for newly separated or divorced individuals. Here are a few ways you can cope and have a happy holiday after going through a divorce.
Do not Worry About Perfection
Don’t worry about having the best holiday; enjoy yourself in any way that works with your new lifestyle post-divorce. Do not fall into a self-pity cycle, which can be self-defeating and will only make you feel worse. If you are alone this holiday, take this as an opportunity to do something you have always wanted to do but could never in your marriage.
Diet & Exercise Can Relieve Stress
If you feel holiday stress because you are worried about being alone, you should try eliminating or limiting foods to increase anxiety symptoms. Meals high in dairy, red meat, caffeine, sugar, and alcohol may improve anxiety symptoms. Focus on dishes with plenty of vegetables, fruits, starches, legumes, whole grains, and fish, which have calming effects. Regular exercise can also impact a person’s emotional state.
Get Creative with Your Holiday Gifts
Gift-giving is an essential part of the holiday season, but you do not have to go the commercial route. High prices and large crowds are a significant stress source for many people, but especially recent divorcees. Instead of going to a mall or buying from Amazon, give out more personal gifts. Whether it is a handwritten letter or an object of great significance, it is something that comes from the heart, and your loved one will be thrilled to receive the gift.
Our legal team at Shaffer Family Law is here for those that need legal advice involving family law, divorce, or child custody. Do not hesitate to give us a call at (480) 470-3030 to request a consultation with our legal team.