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Surviving to Thriving: Holiday Hot Takes for the 2025 Holiday Season

Alyson Haines

In Episode 173, Sam is back for our annual 'surviving the holidays' episode. In this conversation we explore themes relating to holiday anxiety, the pressure to maintain holiday traditions despite external changes, and the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care. 

We also explore the impact of societal shifts on family dynamics and the emotional toll that comes with feeling unable to show up authentically. We'll share our best practical advice for managing holiday stress which includes acknowledging and validating personal feelings, noticing protective strategies, and finding safe outlets for expressing emotions rather than suppressing them. Our goal is to share relatable experiences and actionable steps to navigate the holiday season with greater ease and self-compassion.


02:46 Dealing with Holiday Pressure

08:20 Authenticity and Family Gatherings

26:11 Expressing and Processing Emotions

38:19 Final Thoughts


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Disclaimer: I am an educator. None of what is shared in these conversations should be taken as medical advice. Of course you should always consult your trusted healthcare provider before making any health related decisions.

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