Keep Calm and Cranberry On: Stress-Free Tips for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving often conjures up images of joyful gatherings, hearty meals, and expressions of gratitude. Yet, for many, this holiday can evoke a mix of emotions—happiness interwoven with sadness, loneliness, or even stress. The societal emphasis on celebration can feel overwhelming, especially if the holiday doesn’t align with your current circumstances or emotional state. For those navigating unique challenges, such as dealing with grief, loneliness, or even eating disorders, Thanksgiving can feel particularly fraught. It’s crucial to approach the day with compassion for yourself and others.

If Thanksgiving brings you more gloom and grief than warmth and cheer, you’re not alone—and it’s okay to feel this way. Here are eight tips to help you navigate Thanksgiving with authenticity and self-care.

1. Accept Your Feelings

• It’s important to honor your emotions, whatever they may be. If you’re not feeling the spirit of Thanksgiving, give yourself permission to sit with those feelings. Let go of societal expectations and the weight of social media and focus on being true to yourself.

  
  

2. Reframe Expectations

• Thanksgiving doesn’t have to carry a deep or prescribed meaning. It can simply be a day to share a meal with loved ones—or enjoy time alone if that’s what feels right. The essence of the holiday is yours to define.

  
  

3. Stay Open to Receiving

• If you’re spending Thanksgiving with others but don’t feel like expressing gratitude, consider staying open to receiving gratitude instead. Research shows that being on the receiving end of appreciation can elevate mood and even improve physical well-being by boosting hormones like dopamine and serotonin.

  
  

4. Be Mindful of Triggers

• Whether alone or in a group, holidays often amplify emotional triggers. Be proactive in identifying what might challenge you and prepare strategies to offset those moments. Awareness can help mitigate stress before it escalates.

  
  

5. Practice Mindful Coping

• Equip yourself with coping tools to manage the emotional highs and lows of Thanksgiving. Some strategies include:

  • Taking breaks to recharge in a quiet space and reset your energy during the day.

  • Establishing boundaries with family and friends.

  • Use grounding techniques like journaling or listening to calming music to stay present before and after the meal.

  • Bringing a support person or having someone on standby for emotional encouragement.

  • Driving yourself to events to retain control over your departure time.

    
    

6. Plan Something Post-Holiday

• Having something to look forward to after Thanksgiving can provide a sense of purpose and positivity. Whether it’s a relaxing movie night, a favorite activity, or a cozy day at home, a post-holiday plan can help soften the emotional intensity of the day.

  
  

7. Prioritize Self-Care

• Thanksgiving often kicks off a season of heightened obligations. Stay mindful of your own needs throughout the holiday season by maintaining healthy habits like balanced meals, adequate sleep, and intentional moments of relaxation.

  
  

8. Finding Gratitude in Your Own Way

• While gratitude is a cornerstone of Thanksgiving, it’s okay to approach it differently. Create your own version of a gratitude list—one that honors even the small joys, such as the ability to breathe deeply or the comfort of your favorite blanket. Gratitude, like Thanksgiving itself, is personal and should feel authentic to you.

Remember, Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be perfect in order to be meaningful to you! Whether it’s a day of quiet reflection, a low-key meal, or a time to connect with others, embrace the approach that feels most supportive to your well-being.