The holidays can be an emotional time of year and for some of us sensitive to these energies can bring a variety of mood swings and stress. With a little extra care and some pre-season planning, managing our time in advance can be the difference between a memorable season and one which would have us running us for cover!

It isn’t unusual during the winter solstice when we are already fighting periods of depression and anxiety that the holidays bring even more of either falling short of what we might expect. We may begin feeling run down, say things we don't mean or bounce off the walls with emotions we didn't even know we had, especially around family.

In the cooler months when we we don't have access to what we would normally, and being subject to different personalities we can, very much, lead ourselves into an emotional deficit of our own. And, if we carry the role of caretaker (which many holistic healers do) it isn't out of the question to burst into tears for no apparent reason. We may even feel compelled to go into hiding, negotiating with ourselves as to when an appropriate time to come out would be. Not to worry, it's perfectly normal!

Remember, energy is energy. It will run its course and be back to normal in no time. Meanwhile, there are a few things we can do to help us manage the holiday buzz we do have.

If there is a significant other in the picture, try to lay down some ground rules. You don’t have to handle the host-load yourself and should never be made to feel frail or weak for needing extra help. Explaining how you feel ahead of time and establishing a signature trait indicating your need for down time can clear up any miscomunications the two of you may have along the way.

Creating a special area that is off-limits to children and guests dressed with soft lights, candles, trickling waterfall, music, scents, etc. can offer a welcoming retreat along with a personal tray of cheese and crackers, wine or pastries just for you when you will take that moment to endulge. Recuperation and the opportunity to experience what everyone else is enjoying will put into perspecitve all of your hard work and a chance to recognize what you may have been to busy to notice otherwise!

Last but not least, remember, even if it’s only seven minutes you have to yourself, they are your seven minutes to enjoy as you wish and one of the single best ingredients to enhanse that holiday cheer!

Happy Holidays!
Elleise
Clairvoyance Editor
www.Elleise.com