Embracing Authenticity: A Path to Meaningful Self-Care During the Holidays

Embracing Authenticity: A Path to Meaningful Self-Care During the Holidays

The holiday season is a time of joy, but it can also bring a mix of emotions, social obligations, and stress.

Many experts offer self-care tips during this time, but what if we approached the holidays with authenticity as a principle that helps shape our approach to what we engage in during this season?

In this blog post, we will explore how embracing authenticity can lead to more meaningful self-care experiences during the holiday season. Below are some guiding principles:

1. Rediscovering Your Authentic Self: Sometimes, we lose sight of who we truly are amidst the chaos of the holidays. Trauma and societal expectations can further complicate these challenges. Perhaps take a moment to reflect on your values and what matters most to you.

Ask yourself questions like:

• What do I care about in the world?
• How do I express love and affection?

By reconnecting with our authentic selves, we can make choices that align with our values and bring us fulfillment.

2. Choosing Meaningful Activities: Instead of succumbing to societal pressures and expectations, let authenticity guide your holiday activities. Consider what truly fills your cup and brings you joy. Whether it's volunteering, emphasizing individuality, or prioritizing spiritual growth, engaging in activities that align with your values will make your holiday experiences more meaningful.

3. Shed the "Shoulds": The holiday season often comes with a long list of "shoulds" that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from ourselves. While it's important to consider the needs of our communities, it's equally vital to find a balance that allows for sustainable self-care. By dropping the "shoulds" to some extent, we can create space for authentic choices that nourish our well-being.

There are social obligations that are important and may contribute to the greater good or our relationships in some way. So yes, sometimes we will need to do things we don't want to, however connection to self can help identify what things to let go of and what to hang on to. 

4. Embracing Imperfection: Perfection is not the goal during the holidays or in life. Embracing authenticity means accepting that we won't always get everything right or meet everyone's expectations. It's about being true to ourselves and showing up as our imperfect, genuine selves. By letting go of the pressure to be perfect, we can find more joy and fulfillment in the holiday season.

This holiday season, let authenticity be your compass for self-care. By reconnecting with your authentic self, choosing meaningful activities, and letting go of societal expectations, you can create a holiday experience that truly fills your cup. Embrace imperfection and remember that being authentic is a gift you can give yourself and others. Let this be a season of self-discovery, connection, and meaningful self-care. 

Authenticity is one of Orenda's 5 tenets in its' Trauma Coaching Course. Below is a review of the guiding principles our course approaches trauma through: 

• Growth after Trauma
• Finding Purpose
• Be Authentic to the True You
• The Importance of Self Agency
• Connection & Community

In the event you are curious, here is a link to view the outline of the coaching course: https://www.theorendaproject.org/courses

Have an authentic holiday season!