In my last blog I talked about how the holidays can be a difficult time for some. 

We don’t live in a cheesy Hallmark movie where life gets tied up in a nice, neat bow. For many of us, the holidays can be downright messy.

Today I want to give you permission to be however you need to be and to feel however you need to feel, during this topsy-turvy time.

It’s OK that you feel anxious, exhausted, and a bit melancholy. 

It’s OK that you feel badly that people around you love this time of year, yet you don’t. And it’s also OK if you love this time of year and that it brings you so much joy, and that you’re the first one to get your decorations up.

It’s OK that you don’t celebrate the holidays and don’t decorate.

It’s OK that you’ve been eating more sugar than normal and exercising less.  (Tip: just know that your normal routines will most likely be a bit off for the next month)

It’s OK to feel enticed by the bombardment of weight loss commercials and ads, thinking “maybe this will be the one.”  It’s also OK to make a purchase.

It’s OK to feel frustrated by the bombardment of weight loss commercials and ads, and also feel sadness that you don’t take part in the “New Year, New You” traditions.

It’s OK to have goals for yourself and feel motivated to make changes for your health.

It’s OK to need more support around this time—from friends, family, therapists, nutritionists, and spiritual guides.

It’s OK if you just feel like you want to hide under a rock and emerge on January 2nd.

Whatever you need, it’s OK.

Just do me a favor, though: Pile on extra compassion and understanding, and reach out for support when needed.