Consider how the holiday blues could take on new meaning this year. We love it when Daylight Savings Time gives us those additional hours of sunlight, but boy, we feel the effect when it ends. Plus, the isolation of the still current health pandemic could pose trying times for many.
We already know that Seasonal Affective Disorder, or winter blues, exists with colder temperatures and limited daily sunlight.
The lack of social interaction or, more specifically, the suggested isolation during the holidays amidst these trying times could create stress and/or depression.
The Mayo Clinic offers a list of tips for dealing with holiday stress and depression:
♥ Acknowledge your feelings: It’s normal to feel sad and grief sometimes, and you can’t force yourself to be happy, even during the holidays.
♦ Reach out: If you feel lonely or isolated, reach out for support. During the pandemic, embrace virtually or over the phone.
♣ Be realistic: The holidays are rarely perfect, even in the best years. They will look different this year, and you may have to connect in different ways to celebrate.
♠ Take a breather: Give yourself breaks to reduce stress and clear your mind.
♥ Seek help: Obtain professional help if you need it.
National Crisis Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK
This year, the Hargrove family chose to stay home and celebrate Thanksgiving with just our household instead of our traditional get-together in Philly. I was okay with Zooming and FaceTiming relatives.
Admittedly, the holiday blues hit me. Why? It’s my dad’s birthday on November 28 and my recently deceased Mom’s birthday later this week.
A quick remedy and a simple solution to overcome my feeling of loss. A visit to the Stone Gables Estate annual Christmas light 2.6-mile drive-thru featuring over 600,000 brilliant LED lights.
A great reminder of why we celebrate Christmas, the themed sparkling lights, and symbolism explaining Christ’s birth.
If you live in Central Pennsylvania and are interested in the Stone Gables Estate Christmas Drive-Thru:
Cost: $20.00 (up to eight passengers) online or cash at the gate
For larger vehicles, call 717-902-9791, option 4, for pricing and reservations
Hours: 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays
5:00 – 8:00 p.m. on other weekdays
Friday and Saturday, December 4 and 5
Friday and Saturday, December 11 and 12
Wednesday through Saturday, December 16 -19
Monday through Thursday, December 21 -24
Saturday, December 26
Monday through Thursday, December 28 – 31
Saturday, January 2
Note: This is a drive-thru only, with no opportunity to park and walk around the estate
COVID-19 is still impacting our daily lives. I recommend finding ways to stay connected during this holiday season and perhaps seek new ways to celebrate with loved ones.
Thank you for visiting The Age of Grace; I appreciate you. Don’t forget the three ways to stay healthy this holiday season:
Watch your distance
Wear a mask
Wash your hands
