Are You Experiencing 'Cultural Fatigue'?

Self-Care is more important than ever! Call it Pandemic fatigue, political fatigue, homeschooling fatigue, screen fatigue, isolation fatigue, weather fatigue-I am calling it cultural fatigue- whatever fits for you.  A lot of people are experiencing it, and with the upcoming holidays, people are looking at doing things differently and transitions can be tough (and we have all had our fair share of transitions as of late!) As many people are having discussions on how to navigate through the holidays and with some houses divided on what is the 'best practice,' these can be tough conversations and realizations. Many people are coming to the conclusion that less is best.  This means many people are making choices to not invite people they typically would or choosing not to go where you would typically go.  During times like this I encourage people to focus on what they can do, not what they can't do. Journaling is a great way to process emotions and reaching out to people to connect is so important.  Let's get to Thanksgiving! I like to think of it as two words, 'Thanks' and 'Giving' and practicing both can bring positive benefits as research shows. What does Thanksgiving look like in 2020? If you are doing it differently this year with less people, how about agreeing to have the meal at the same time with friends and/or family and set up a time frame (either part of it or all of it) to spend together via facetime/zoom etc...Many people go around and say something they are thankful for prior to dinner or pray, you can include whatever ritual you do with your loved ones via the internet. Maybe you can swap dishes on the porch beforehand.  Get creative and think outside the box with how to stay connected. This year is a great year to start new traditions and maybe do extra decorations.  Please remember those who will be alone through the holidays and make an extra effort to reach out to them.  And if you are alone, please reach out to others.