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How does one step into the holidays when life is tough? Perhaps there has been a loss of a job or a decrease in financial flow. Now, more than ever, it is important to practice good self-care during the holidays.

It can be tough in times of difficulty to see a "silver lining" amidst so much loss. If this is true for you, I invite you to notice all the blessings that are in your life, and to start each day with an attitude of gratitude. The gratitude may be your breath or the covers that kept you warm during the night. Doing this practice regularly, you may be surprised how your life begins to shift from overwhelm to deep appreciation.

Remember, you are not alone on this journey. Reach out to someone you trust and let them hold you in a safe and nurturing space. Then, "pay it forward".

5 Ways to Overcome the Holidays, Even if Your Life is Hard

If you have had a tough time this year, due to job loss, illness, the financial crisis, or other heartbreak, you may be dreading the holiday season. These tips from the authors of Overcomers, Inc may help you cope:

1. Make taking care of your needs your number one priority this year. While it is good to care for others, in times of stress, it is easy to get overwhelmed by too much done on other's behalf.
2. Get enough rest. If you are feeling sad or stressed, those feelings will intensify if you don't get enough rest. Be sure you have enough time to recharge your batteries.
3. Create some new traditions. If this is the first year that you'll face the holidays after the death of a loved one or post layoff, don't pretend that life is the same and force yourself to do all the things you've always done. Keep the traditions that feel good to you but add at least one new thing that you will enjoy. New traditions bring more positive energy into the holiday season.
4. Ask for help. If you've always entertained 35 people with a full course dinner but just don't feel up to it or can't afford it, let your loved ones know. Suggest a potluck meal, let another family member host the event this year, or have a movie nut with simple snacks. Match your energy level and your budget to what you can do, not what you've always done.
5. Reach out to others in need. No matter how awful you may feel your life is, there are folks in a more difficult situation. Sending an afternoon visiting a nursing home, volunteering in a food pantry, or sending a care package to a member of the military will lift your spirits and help you feel needed.

May your holiday season be filled with compassion, peace, forgiveness and love.