Tis’ the Season for Self-Care

The holiday season can be a joyous time filled with warm memories, cheerful gatherings, and cozy decorations, but it can also be a difficult time of year for many. The pressure to create the ‘perfect’ holiday experience can be overwhelming, especially for those managing mental health concerns like anxiety or depression. Incorporating therapy techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness practices into your holiday planning can help ease some of the inevitable holiday stressors. Choosing the perfect Christmas tree is one aspect of holiday decorating that can be made easier with these techniques.

How to Choose an Artificial Christmas Tree Fit for a King

When it comes to Christmas trees, the options are nearly endless. There are tall trees, short trees, skinny trees, and even trees that come pre-lit. A small artificial Christmas tree is a great choice for those who crave a smaller tree that fits perfectly into your regal castle. Here are some tips to help you pick the perfect one:

1. Consider your space: If you have limited space, ensure you measure the area where your tree will be placed before making your purchase. Trees come in many sizes, but a smaller tree might be necessary to avoid cluttering your space.

2. Take your time: You want to ensure you are comfortable making a decision, as it may end up being something you are unhappy with. Explore your options and decide what kind of look you are going for. Would a traditional green tree with simple decorations be ideal? Or do you want a colorful, retro-inspired tree?

Now, how do you incorporate therapy techniques into this process?

3. Mindfulness: Take a mindful approach to decorating your tree. Focus on the sensory experience of feeling the needles or shape of the branches, admiring the color and texture of the ornaments, and enjoying the warmth and ambiance of the lights. When you are mindful, you are present in the moment and can enjoy what you are doing without your mind racing ahead to the next task.

4. CBT: Use cognitive-behavioral techniques to combat negative self-talk or feelings of inadequacy when making your choice. For example, if you become overwhelmed by all your options, take a step back and remind yourself that there is no one correct answer. The tree you choose will be perfect simply because it is the one you picked.

5. DBT: When making your decision, consider the concept of dialectical thinking. Dialectics suggest that there are often two opposing forces (in this case, your desire for a cozy tree and your need for practicality in your space) that can be reconciled. By finding the balance between these two opposing forces, you can make a satisfying and functional choice.

In conclusion, the holiday season can be a stressful time for many. But it doesn’t have to be! Incorporating therapy techniques like CBT, DBT, and mindfulness practices into your decorating process can make choosing the perfect small artificial Christmas tree a fun and enjoyable experience. Remember, there is no one correct answer, and the perfect tree is the one that speaks to you. So go forth, your King of Christmas, and find the tree to bring the most holiday cheer to your castle.