Before the Holidays Hit: Three Grounding Practices for Heavy Seasons
- CCSEMI
- Nov 24
- 2 min read
As the holiday season approaches, everywhere you look, there’s pressure to be cheerful, grateful, and “in the spirit.” But for many people, this time of year doesn’t feel festive; it feels heavy.
Maybe you’re grieving someone you love. Perhaps you’re navigating loneliness, anxiety, depression, or just trying to hold it all together while the world around you feels overwhelming. If that’s you, we want you to know:
You’re not alone. And your feelings are not wrong.
At our counseling center, we work with people who are carrying invisible weight, especially during seasons that are supposed to feel joyful. What often gets left out of the holiday conversation is the truth: this time of year can stir up pain, memories, and a deep sense of disconnection.
That’s why we’re offering three simple grounding practices to help you move through this season with more steadiness, more self-compassion, and less pressure to pretend.
1. Name What’s Real for You (Without Shame)
You don’t have to pretend you’re okay. Not with us. Not with yourself.
One of the most powerful things you can do is pause and name what’s actually true for you right now. That might sound like:
“I miss my mom more during this time.”
“I feel left out of everyone else’s joy.”
“This year has taken more out of me than I expected.”
Naming your truth doesn’t make you weak; it makes you honest. And honesty is what healing is built on.
Write it down. Say it out loud. Share it in therapy. Let your truth breathe.
2. Create a Soft Space Just for You
You don’t owe anyone your constant availability or your emotional energy.
During intense seasons, it’s okay to set boundaries around your time, space, and capacity. That might mean:
Saying no to events that drain you
Choosing peace over performance
Making your own traditions that center your healing
A “soft space” can look like a cozy night in, journaling, crying without apologizing, or simply breathing deeply with no expectations. You deserve to feel safe, even if the world around you is loud.
3. Stay Connected to Something Grounding
When life feels chaotic, what helps you come back to yourself?
For some, it’s a spiritual practice. For others, it’s being outside, listening to music, or talking with a trusted friend or therapist. It could even be repeating a simple affirmation:
“I am allowed to move slowly.” “I don’t have to carry this alone.” “Even now, I am worthy of care.”
Whatever reminds you that you’re still here, still human, still held…lean into that.
You Don’t Have to Get Through the Holidays Alone
If this season feels too heavy to hold on your own, that’s not a failure; it’s a sign you’re carrying more than most people see.
Therapy can be a space to lay it down. To feel without performing. To heal without hiding.
At the Counseling Center of SE Michigan, we’re here when you’re ready. Whether you’re dealing with grief, anxiety, depression, or just trying to keep your head above water, we see you. And we’re here to support you with care, intention, and truth.
You deserve to feel grounded this season. Not perfect. Just held.
Need someone to talk to?
Click here to schedule a session or learn more about our therapists.
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