The Gift You Deserve This Season
Written by Brittany Proxmire, MA, LCMHCA
Psychotherapist
When I think of the holiday season, I think of warmth, love, gifts, and yummy food. I usually make my way back to my mountainous hometown of Waynesville, NC, where my immediate family lives. I love the whole process of shopping, finding gifts I know my people will love, and seeing their faces light up when they open something they’ve knowingly or unknowingly hinted at wanting. Spending time with my three siblings, making new memories, and leaning into our traditions is something I look forward to every year as things start to wind down.
But, like many others, I also feel how the end of the year can bring stress, chaos, and a lot of reflection on how much life has shifted, for better or worse. And like clockwork, the grey, bitter winter weather brings out seasonal depression and heaviness for many of my clients. Needless to say, winter and the holidays are not all jingle bells and cheer.
This time of year is often spent with loved ones and can stir up a mix of emotions. I always encourage my clients to stay in tune with the needs of their body. Even if the holidays offer a chance for a break, are you actually giving yourself one?
Your body is always speaking to you. Pay attention to the cues it gives you and allow yourself to respond with kindness.
Maybe that means stepping away from a crowded room, taking a nap, eating something nourishing, or giving yourself permission to not do it all.
If the season feels heavy, give yourself permission to slow down. If it brings joy, let yourself soak it in fully. If it’s a mix of both, that’s okay too. There is no right way to navigate this time of year. Your experience does not have to match anyone else’s. What matters most is honoring what feels true for you. Let this be a time where you show yourself the same compassion, patience, and care that you offer so freely to others. Remember that some of the gifts this season can be for you too.
Wishing you and your loved ones a season of love and self-compassion.
Happy Holidays!
Author Brittany Proxmire, MA, LCMHCA is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate specializing in pediatric therapy. With a warm and playful approach, she engages children and adolescents, providing evidence-based techniques like play therapy, art therapy, talk therapy, Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP), and other modalities. Brittany collaborates with families, offering insight and support, while empowering clients to make positive changes and discover their authentic selves. In Brittany's work with teens and young adults she utilizes cognitive-behavioral therapy and humanistic approaches to foster behavioral change and self-awareness. Brittany's ultimate passion is helping children, teens, young adults, parents and families find happiness, peace, and harmony.
