10 Ways to Cure the Holiday Blues

by Tess on January 3, 2011

The holiday blues affect 25% of the population. With the excitement of the season past, adults and children can experience emotional letdown, become bored, lonely and blue. Life feels ho-hum and uneventful.

Adjusting your thoughts, attitude and behavior offers relief and allows an opportunity to reenergize and renew your life. You can learn to be happy for no reason.

1. Concentrate on natural beauty.

Take a short walk and focus on your breathe. Notice the light on the trees, a bird in the air or the smell of the earth. As you sink into the stillness of nature, become open to transformation. Fill your mind with gentle thoughts of the beauty of life.

2. Meditate on love.

Place your hand on your heart and take a few deep breaths. Open your heart and think on love. Reflect on the different ways you give and receive love. Allow the memory of a recent loving experience to fill you. Recycle this love by sending it forth to the entire planet. This will help restore wholeness and happiness to you and to earth.

3. Create an inner haven of safety and peace.

The present moment is a place of simplicity where life and love flow. When things happen, offer no resistance. Gently bring yourself to the present moment. Trust things will work out. Moment by moment choose to feel safe.

4. Antidote for a pity party

Choose to uplift others in need. Be creative with your kindness. Be spontaneous, outrageous and crazy! Shared positive energy has a boomerang effect. Every act of love increases your experience of love in the universe. It’s a beautiful thing.

5. Look forward to each day.

Life is full of surprises. There are unimaginable opportunities, breath taking moments, soul connections, goodness and grace. When you become open to the possibilities, it’s easy to see how the world is plotting to do you good today.

6. Taste new experiences.

Go places you’ve never been before, do things you haven’t done before. Visit an art museum. Try new foods. Listen to quiet music. When you mix things up amazing things can happen.

7. Anticipate prosperity

Reflect on this statement, “I wonder how much better life can get?” Let your imagination run wild as you think of future blessings. Let this exercise inspire you to become renewed and refreshed.

8. Walk your talk.

When you lose faith and doubt, step into principles and meditation like never before. Feel the wonder of being alive. Delight in the ordinary. Consciously choose hope, love and peace. Be persistent and move forward!

8. Throw an abundance party

Celebrate how rich life is with a group of your neighbors, friends or family. Choose a charity and ask guests to bring donations and a dish to pass. The only topic allowed is sincere discussion for how much everyone has to appreciate in life.

10. Surround yourself with love.

Surrender unhealthy relationships. When you release someone from a friendship, you leave space in both of your lives for a better connection or relationship. You can repeat, “I bless you, I release you, I set you free. I allow you to be you and me to be me.” Decide to spend quality time with encouraging people doing uplifting activities you enjoy.

* If problems persist, seek the help of a professional.

photo credit: melloveschallah

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{ 50 comments… read them below or add one }

Pea January 3, 2011 at 10:09 am

Some great pointers for any blues Mrs Smile!

Tess January 3, 2011 at 11:54 am: Hi Pea,
I love your humor and yes I’m smiling. I was blue on the 28th but took the time to work through it with these suggestions. So I thought I would share them.

Reply

Pea January 3, 2011 at 10:12 am

PS I’m not entirely nuts! – I’m referring to your rather beautiful pic re The Smile reference.

Angela Artemis January 3, 2011 at 10:30 am

Hi Tess,
I find that I don’t have the holiday blues after actual holidays, but I do have them after vacations. Many of my vacations are attending courses and seminars. I usually meet and make friends with the most wonderful people at these events, so that when I come home I definitely have the “holiday blues.” These tips will come in very handy for when I return from my next trip.

Thank you for these excellent tips. I can see myself taking a a walk in nature to cheer up!
.-= Angela Artemis´s last post…Catch & Release- The Creativity- Intuition & Meditation Expedition =-.

Tess January 3, 2011 at 11:57 am: Angela,
That makes sense having to part with new friends soon after you meet them. However if you come to Sedona for your next vacation I promise you won’t feel blue afterwards. I’m sure we can find a seminar there;O)

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The Exception January 3, 2011 at 10:30 am

Tess, These are wonderful tips and some of which I had not considered. My daughter and I made interesting new year’s resolutions – hers is to be herself… and mine is to write more thank you notes and recognize the little things that we do for one another…
I love you number 7 – hey, I love the entire list. This is one of the few years I can remember in which I do not know what the future holds in some way, shape, or form. It is a bit unsettling as the events of the week and month ahead are unknown… and yet, it is kind of exciting as I have the freedom to fully live in the moments of today and trust.
Happy 2011 Tess.

Tess January 3, 2011 at 11:58 am: Hi E,
Yes I think that’s a fun and amazing question. I’m going to begin asking it with hubs when we go on our walks. It’s like creating your future abundance in a fun way.

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Jonathan Figaro January 3, 2011 at 11:12 am

I thought surrounding my self with love should of been the first one..lol. Great post. Love does conquer all Tess. Love does conquer all.

Tess January 3, 2011 at 11:59 am: Hi Jonathan,
Yes I agree love does conquer all and when that happens the rest will fall into place.

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Leah McClellan January 3, 2011 at 11:56 am

Hi Tess! These are great, but they’re great to me for a different reason than most I guess–I’m so glad the holidays are over! I don’t even do anything except some of my solstice sorts of things–I do a little traditional stuff once in awhile but this year I didn’t even get out any special candles or anything at all. Too busy. But I’m happy they’re over because all the hustle and bustle and all the stuff that goes with it just is challenging for me…how to respond to neighbors who good-naturedly ask if “all my shopping is done” or, like yesterday, “How were your holidays?” I have standard responses and I smile–they mean well–but it can get draining.

But your tips pumped up this GREAT feeling of lightness I have today! Sun is shining, having a great day, haven’t felt this good since around 12/15 lol Starting to hear from friends who were all caught up in it with family etc..yay! Love #7…off for a walk with the dogs in the sunshine with a very light step
.-= Leah McClellan´s last post…2011- The Year of Love =-.

Tess January 3, 2011 at 12:00 pm

Leah,
Isn’t life grand? I’m happy we’re becoming online friends! I appreciate your wisdom.

Charlotte Rains Dixon January 3, 2011 at 5:10 pm

I always feel let down for a little while as the Monday after the holidays dawns, but as the morning wears on, it occurs to me that I’ve gotten my life back. And I get excited about being able to focus on the writing and coaching that I love. I’m very fortunate to be surrounded by love, and I think I’m going to take you suggestion to throw an abundance party to celebrate.

Tess January 4, 2011 at 5:17 am: Charlotte,
Good for you! It sounds like you have a one person abundance party. Now you’re invited others to join you.

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Sandra Lee January 3, 2011 at 5:41 pm

Tess, Thanks for this reminder that the holidays don’t necessarily bring happiness to everyone. These are all such wonderful tips. I especially like your brief meditation on love. I always appreciate simple approaches that are at the same time very powerful. You have given us not just one in this meditation on love, but 9 other ways to lift our self up. Thank you!
.-= Sandra Lee´s last post…Is a Lack of Forgiveness Holding You Back =-.

Tess January 4, 2011 at 5:18 am: Sandra,
Yes I myself need to meditate on love all year long. That’s a great idea, ya thing?

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Ande Waggener January 3, 2011 at 7:04 pm

Tess, I could have used a list like this many years ago when I used to experience a HUGE holiday letdown. Thankfully, I’ve become more more skilled at staying in each day–it’s like your number 5–”look forward to each day,” except I don’t look forward so much as savor as I’m in it. And when I’m in something that doesn’t seem savorable (like my made up word? , I ask “What is there for me in this?” and that’s helping me not compare the what is to what’s coming or what’s come before, which does away with those let downs. This isn’t just a go anti-letdown list–it’s a good relish life list!
.-= Ande Waggener´s last post…Do You Need A Tune Up =-.

Tess January 4, 2011 at 5:19 am: Ande,
Thanks for your compliment. I like your idea as well with the savoring. I love that word!

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Cathy Taughinbaugh January 3, 2011 at 7:34 pm

Your sunflower just made me feel better!! Thanks.
.-= Cathy Taughinbaugh´s last post…11 Time Saving Tips for Finding Addiction Treatment Centers =-.

Tess January 4, 2011 at 5:19 am: Cathy,
Who doesn’t smile at sunflowers. Love ‘em.

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Dandy January 3, 2011 at 7:48 pm

This is wonderful Tess! It is a serious topic and you gave the it such dignity. Your ideas are wonderful even for those who don’t have the blues. These ideas will certainly keep sadness away. Your writing if filled with respect and integrity. Thanks for that Tess!
.-= Dandy´s last post…Kiss my muffin top- A study in self-image =-.

Tess January 4, 2011 at 5:20 am: Dandy,
Respect and integrity. I love that. I’m grateful. HNY!

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Debbie Hampton January 3, 2011 at 7:59 pm

This is a great list for any time of the year, any day when I need some help getting centered. I will print it out and add it to the “tool kit.”

It is amazing to me that I know all this stuff; however, when I am in a funk, I forget and need some gentle reminders. Then, I am like “Oh, yeah, duh!” Thank you!
.-= Debbie Hampton´s last post…Home for the Holidays =-.

Tess January 4, 2011 at 5:21 am: Yes, Debbie. I especially know how we forget. My thoughts are not clear in funks. So reminders are good for me as well.

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Joy January 3, 2011 at 8:33 pm

Hi Tess,
Wonderful list! I think not only applicable for ‘holiday blues’ but for any day,, blues or not…
I did not have holiday blues, but I was having a “too much extreme weather in a short period of time blues” and the best way for me to come out of that is to change my attitude which I do with a gratitude list..and then breathe deeply and praise for it all..I cannot change external, but I *can* change my perspective!
.-= Joy´s last post…A Brand New Day Full of Joy… =-.

Tess January 4, 2011 at 5:22 am: Joy,
Yes I heard about that weather. Hope the sun is shining now. I just bought a new gratitude journal and I’m lovin’ it.

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Suzie Cheel January 4, 2011 at 1:27 am

Hi Tess,

No no blues- taking time to get unpacked and reorganised. I had a wonderful holiday- just would have like another week
love 7-10 going to take no 7 on board tomorrow on the beach walk with Des.
Mediating on love I love- opens up my heart
love and hugs
Suzie
.-= Suzie Cheel´s last post…Word of The Week- Abundance =-.

Tess January 4, 2011 at 5:23 am: Suzie,
Love and prosperity. They go hand in hand. Eh?

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Jan January 4, 2011 at 4:45 am

I agree with Cathy ….the sunflower was quite eyecatching and got me going even before I read your post. These tips will help me to survive the dreary Michigan winter which just goes on too long.

Tess January 4, 2011 at 5:24 am

Jan,
Oh yes in fact with Michigan weather it’s good to have flowers in your home all winter. In AZ they just don’t last but a few days when they’re already cut. I miss that so much. Fresh flowers at the farmer’s market. Hope you get some sunshine soon!

Alex Blackwell January 4, 2011 at 6:24 am

Timely and helpful list Tess.

You probably know #10 speaks to me the most. When we surrender to love, we open ourselves to receive the best gifts in the world.

Happy New Year,

Alex

Tess January 5, 2011 at 5:51 am: Alex,
My word of the year is love. Now any time I’m upset I immediately think about my word and commitment:)

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Keith January 4, 2011 at 7:39 am

Tess,

I’m with Joy. This list is great, and not just for holidays but anytime. I felt it’s power as I read through it. Especially number 2 and 3!

I am grateful for your presence in this world Tess. You’ve helped me quite a lot. =)

Tess January 5, 2011 at 5:52 am: Keith,
You rock and I so appreciate your kind words. xo

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rob white January 4, 2011 at 7:44 am

Yes indeed, Tess. The holidays sure can throw us into the “pity party” … the best way to stay out of the pity party is to host our own party of appreciation and kindness. The world really is our cosmic boomerang; it can only reflect back what we project outwardly. It is true every behavior we exhibit; every action we take, every response that we put out there in the world … it is all mirrored back to us.

Tess January 5, 2011 at 5:52 am: And there is the wisdom of a lifetime summed up in a few words!

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Karen January 4, 2011 at 8:13 am

Hi Tess,

These are all great tips for curing the holiday blues. I know that I suffer from them sometimes. They can be pretty anti-climatic, and a let-down once all the hoopla is over. I think you have to have good expectations and build up the holidays too much otherwise you can be really disappointed.

Also, many people suffer from SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) so having hours where you can see the sun and/or a good lightsource will help.

Thanks for sharing,
Karen
.-= Karen´s last post…5 Surefire Ways To Stick To Your New Year Resolutions =-.

Tess January 5, 2011 at 5:54 am: Karen,
The blues and depression have a stigma and I thing it needs to be abolished. Thanks for stopping by and giving us your wise words, Karen. I appreciate you.

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Bryce Christiansen January 4, 2011 at 8:27 am

That’s so true what you say about Holiday Blues. I had dinner with my brother and his wife last night. They had the last 2 weeks off from work and neither of them were looking forward to the coming work week.

So to help cure the blues we played some card games. It was relaxing, stress free, and made for a good night.

Thanks for the suggestions.
.-= Bryce Christiansen´s last post…How Applying Behavior and Motivator Assessments Can Improve Your Life- Part 6 =-.

Tess January 5, 2011 at 5:54 am: Bryce,
What an awesome brother you are, thanks for adding your love and care to our world.

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Peggy January 4, 2011 at 11:04 am

Hi Tess,

I don’t think one has to be blue to do a few things on this list! I LOVE the idea of throwing an abundance party (in part because I’ve chosen abundance as my word for 2011!!)

A few years ago, Rick and I threw a “beat the winter blues” Hawaiin Luau Party. We had so much fun!!

xo
.-= Peggy´s last post…Happy New Year =-.

Tess January 5, 2011 at 5:55 am: Peggy,
Your and abundance and me and love…two words that rock the universe;)

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Megan "JoyGirl!" Bord January 4, 2011 at 2:00 pm

You know, when I saw the title of this post I thought, “Oh, I’m not going to comment because I don’t have the holiday blues…” but then I scanned it and saw “Throw An Abundance Party” and I thought, “RIGHT ON!” I love, love, love that suggestion, and you know what? I think you inspired me. What an awesome suggestion – thanks, Tess!

Tess January 5, 2011 at 5:55 am: Hi Megan,
Oh yes how about an online abundance party. Like a webinar or something? You in?

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Lori January 4, 2011 at 8:00 pm

Tess,
I love this post, wise words my friend. LOVE IT!
I especially wanted to comment on the photo, too. I had a vision of us (a mini-version, that is) sitting on the crown of the flower with these gorgeous, petite coffee cups with real vines and tiny buds on wrapped around them. I can hear our cups clinking and our laughter drowning out the whistling wind and whispers of the grasses below us.

Love! ~xo
.-= Lori´s last post…Reflections on Spirituality- Science- and Nature =-.

Tess January 5, 2011 at 5:57 am

Oh my God Lori, I love that and it sounds like an awesome thing to draw, write down and share on a bigger basis. Hmmm. You are so wonderful sometimes it’s hard to take in all of your love. xo But I’m doing it;)

Clearly Composed January 5, 2011 at 8:42 am

Number 11. Visits Tess often! That’s a sure fire way to find your smile again.
.-= Clearly Composed´s last post… The Word For 2011 Is… =-.

Tess January 5, 2011 at 6:00 pm: Emma,
You are so kind!

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Little Lessons Under the Big Sky January 5, 2011 at 2:06 pm

Well Tess, you’ve done it again! Your articles always seem so timely to me!
This one was perfect. I find Jan/Feb to be the hardest time of the year for me, for various reasons. Thank you for the very valuable reminder!

I also take extra vitamin D for the winter months. When we are in a location that doesn’t get much sun, it helps melt away a bit of the winter blues!

Love,
Jen
.-= Little Lessons Under the Big Sky´s last post…NEW YEARS REDEFINED =-.

Tess January 5, 2011 at 6:00 pm