Making the Seasons Brighter: Holiday Tips for Moms

As we move through Suicide Awareness Month and into the holiday season, it’s a good time to remind ourselves that amidst the festive chaos, it’s okay to pause and breathe. The holidays are magical but can also be overwhelming, especially for busy moms balancing the season’s joys and challenges. Let’s focus on making this time brighter for everyone—including ourselves.

Prioritizing Mental Health During Holiday Stress

The holiday hustle can take a toll on mental health, especially when paired with the pressures of motherhood. Here are a few ways to lighten the load:

• Ease Up on Expectations: It’s okay if some traditions are skipped or simplified this year.
• Connect With Support: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out to a family member, a friend, or a fellow mom who understands the journey.
• Take Small Breaks: A 10-minute walk or quick journaling session can make a difference in your well-being.

Heartfelt Gifts From Home

This year, consider gifts that come from the heart rather than the store:

• Homemade Treats: Bake cookies, make fudge, or create festive hot cocoa kits.
• Personalized Ornaments: Use salt dough, paint, or glitter to craft simple, memorable ornaments.
• Family Recipe Book: Compile favorite recipes into a homemade cookbook for loved ones.

Local Festive Adventures

Long Beach is brimming with holiday magic! Here are some local highlights to enjoy with your family:

• Naples Holiday Lights: Stroll through the canals or take a gondola ride to see the stunning light displays.
• Daisy Avenue Christmas Tree Lane Parade: Celebrate the season with a festive neighborhood parade.
• Block Candy Cane Hunt: For moms with little ones, take a walk around your neighborhood and count the candy canes, Christmas trees, or inflatable Santas you can find. Turn it into a fun game!

Make It a Festive Season

The holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Whether you’re making homemade gifts, exploring local lights, or simply cuddling up with a warm drink and your little ones, remember that the season is about connection, joy, and love.

Take care of yourself, mama. You deserve it.

Happy Holidays from all of us at Long Beach Moms!