Image by Wix The holiday season is a time of joy, togetherness, and cherished traditions. However, for military families, it can also bring a unique set of challenges and stressors. Having served in the Army, I understand the complexities of military life during the holidays. In this article, I'll share insights and strategies to help military families navigate the season with resilience, mindfulness, and a focus on well-being.
Embrace Flexibility: Military life is synonymous with unpredictability. Deployments, duty assignments, and last-minute changes are part of the package. When it comes to holiday planning, it's crucial to embrace flexibility. Be prepared for adjustments to your celebrations and traditions. Having backup plans and open communication with your loved ones can help ease the stress of sudden changes.
Prioritize Self-Care: As a certified health and wellness coach, I can't emphasize enough the importance of self-care, especially during the holidays. Take time for yourself, whether it's a few minutes of deep breathing, a short walk, or enjoying a favorite hobby. Self-care is not selfish; it's a necessity to maintain your well-being.
Connect Virtually with Loved Ones: Military service often means being far from family and friends during the holidays. Fortunately, technology allows us to bridge that distance. Embrace video calls and virtual gatherings to stay connected with loved ones. Sharing moments, stories, and laughter online can help create a sense of togetherness.
Set Realistic Expectations: The desire for picture-perfect holiday celebrations is universal, but setting realistic expectations is essential. Military life can be demanding, and your circumstances may not align with your ideal holiday scenario. Focus on creating meaningful moments and cherishing your time with loved ones, regardless of the setting.
Create New Traditions: Military families often find themselves in different locations for the holidays. Consider creating new traditions that can be adapted to various settings. Whether it's a special holiday recipe, a unique ornament, or a shared activity, these traditions can provide a sense of continuity and comfort.
Reach Out for Support: Don't hesitate to seek support from your military community, family readiness groups, or local organizations. Many groups offer resources and events tailored to military families during the holidays. Connecting with others who understand your situation can be immensely comforting.
Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management: Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, can be powerful tools for managing holiday stress. As a certified personal trainer, I encourage you to incorporate stress-reduction exercises into your daily routine. These practices can help you stay grounded and resilient in facing challenges.
Focus on Gratitude: Even in the midst of uncertainty, there is always something to be thankful for. Could you make it a daily practice to express gratitude? It can be as simple as acknowledging the support of your family, the camaraderie of your military community, or the small joys that brighten your day.
Remember Your Strength: As a military family, you've already demonstrated incredible strength and resilience. Use your past experiences as a source of inspiration and confidence in facing holiday stress. Remind yourself of the challenges you've overcome, and trust in your ability to navigate this season.
In conclusion, managing holiday stress as a military family requires adaptability, self-care, and focusing on what truly matters. By embracing flexibility, reaching out for support, and prioritizing your well-being, you can create a holiday season filled with warmth and connection. Remember, you are not alone, and your strength shines even brighter during the holidays.
Wishing you a joyful and resilient holiday season!
By: Leah Balmer, U.S Army Veteran
CPT, CHWC, and Travel Wellness Coach