Shine Now Magazine Nov_Dec_Issue_r2 | Page 15

How to Battle Sadness and Reduce Stress during the Holidays By: Aida Cirino-Lee We emphasize giving thanks for all our blessings, mercies and infinite grace to our Lord, during the Thanksgiving holiday. We culminate by celebrating God’s greatest gift to mankind for redemption, the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, which is Christmas. Now, this should be a joyous and happy time of the year for most peo- ple. Yet, it turns out to be sad, depressing and full of anxiety for others. In today's world, holidays are so commercialized that the original pur- pose for the celebrations are minimized to who can cook the greatest meal, Santa Claus, and buying the most expensive gifts. The pressures to live up to this type of lifestyle has people stressed, depressed and in debt. Also, the cost of traveling to see loved ones you live faraway places guilt and a financial burden upon family members unable to make the trip. Likewise, mourning the death of loved awakens a sense of sadness and loneliness that intensify during the holidays. Yet, the same pressure for togetherness with family members who have unresolved conflicts, or don’t get along drains the excitement from the celebration. 15