Navigating the Holiday Season with Intention

Nov 6

Written By Alexis Zernechel

The holiday season can be a time of joy, connection, and celebration, but it can also bring stress, pressure, and emotional strain. Many people feel pulled in multiple directions, balancing family obligations, social events, and work demands. The following strategies can help you navigate the holidays with intention, so you can focus on what brings you meaning, joy, and balance:

Clarify Your Priorities

Before filling your calendar, take a moment to reflect on what truly matters to you

this season. Which traditions align with your values and energy? Which events leave

you feeling fulfilled? Saying “no” to some obligations can create space for what feels

meaningful.

Set Boundaries with Compassion

Boundaries are not about pushing people away. They are about honoring your

needs. This might mean limiting social gatherings, carving out quiet time, or setting

realistic expectations for yourself and others. Communicating boundaries kindly can

reduce stress and prevent resentment.

Recognize Triggers Early

Holiday gatherings can sometimes bring up old patterns or complicated family

dynamics. Recognizing these triggers ahead of time allows you to plan coping

strategies, practice self-care, and seek support when needed.

Plan Recovery Time

Build in downtime after busy events to rest and recharge. Treat it as part of your

holiday planning, not a luxury. Use this time to engage in low-energy, restorative

activities such as reading, journaling, meditating, or simply doing nothing.

Check In with Yourself Regularly

Throughout the season, pause to assess your emotional and physical well-being. Are

you feeling energized or depleted? Adjust your commitments and self-care practices

accordingly to maintain balance.

Navigating the holidays with intention does not mean doing everything “right.” It means approaching the season thoughtfully, listening to your needs, and prioritizing what brings you peace. - Alexis

Alexis Zernechel

I believe healing begins by creating space to listen to ourselves with compassion. Therapy is not about “fixing” who we are, but about honoring our stories, exploring the parts of ourselves that feel overlooked, and allowing growth to unfold.

I am especially passionate about supporting teens and adults through major life transitions—such as starting college, changing careers, becoming a parent, or navigating shifts in relationships. These seasons of change can feel overwhelming, but they also hold rich opportunities for growth. Together, we’ll work to embrace both the challenges and possibilities they bring.

I approach therapy as a collaborative process, guided by a person-centered and strengths-based lens. I pay attention to the mind-body connection and to the ways relationships, environments, and systems shape our lives. In our work together, you can expect curiosity, compassion, and gentle encouragement as you move toward deeper understanding and self-trust.