Toxic Families & the Holidays: Protect Your Energy & Embrace Self-Love

Articles, Healing Stories

Toxic Families and the Holidays: How to Protect Your Energy and Embrace Self-Love

INTRODUCTION: DECK THE HALLS… OR DODGE THE CALLS?

Ah, the holidays—a magical time of joy, love, and mistletoe. Or so the movies would have you believe. In reality, for many, the holidays come with an extra side of guilt, stress, and a whole lot of «Are you really going to wear that?» commentary. Whether it’s the subtle (or not-so-subtle) digs from relatives, the relentless pressure to show up and smile, or the weight of old family wounds resurfacing, the holiday season can feel more like a battlefield than a winter wonderland.

But here’s the thing: you don’t have to let toxic dynamics steal your sparkle. What if this year, instead of surviving the holidays, you thrived? What if you reclaimed the season as your own, free from guilt and filled with moments that truly nourish your soul? This 10-step guide survival kit is here to help you do just that. Let’s trade dread for delight, one boundary, laugh, and self-love ritual at a time.

1. RECOGNIZING THE HOLIDAY WAR ZONE: IT’S NOT ALL IN YOUR HEAD

Let’s start with a dose of validation: If the thought of family gatherings makes your stomach churn, you’re not overreacting. Toxic family dynamics are as real as Aunt Linda’s infamous fruitcake (and just as unpalatable). So how do you know if you’re dealing with holiday toxicity? Here are some telltale signs:

  • You feel like you need an emotional hazmat suit just to make it through dinner.
  • Family gatherings involve more interrogation than connection—»When are you getting married? When will you give us grandchildren?»
  • There’s always a power struggle, and somehow you’re stuck in the middle.

These dynamics can leave you feeling drained, resentful, and wondering if it’s too late to book a one-way ticket to anywhere. And while it’s tempting to dismiss these feelings as «just part of the holidays,» recognizing the issue is the first step toward reclaiming your peace.

2. THE ART OF BOUNDARY-SETTING: BECAUSE SANTA ISN’T THE ONLY ONE WHO SAYS «NO»

Picture this: You’re at the dinner table, and your cousin leans in with that familiar smirk. «So, when are you going to settle down?» Boundaries, my friend, are your best holiday accessory. Think of them as the invisible force field that keeps your sanity intact while everyone else debates the cranberry sauce recipe. Setting boundaries might feel awkward at first, but trust me, the payoff is worth it. When you protect your energy, you can actually enjoy the holidays without the emotional hangover. Here’s how to set them without losing your cool—or your spot at the dessert table:

  • THE FIRM YET FRIENDLY APPROACH: «I’d love to keep this conversation light. Let’s save personal topics for another time». This is simply a POLITE DEFLECTION tactic. You are not going there. End of story!
  • THE DIRECT APPROACH: «I’d prefer not to discuss my personal life, especially at dinner».
  • THE PREEMPTIVE STRIKE: Let family members know ahead of time what’s off-limits. «Just a heads-up, I’m focusing on career right now, so let’s skip the dating talk».
  • THE STRATEGIC EXIT: Have a backup plan—»Excuse me, I think the pie needs my attention!»
  • THE HUMOROUS REDIRECT: «No wedding bells yet, but I did binge-watch a whole series last weekend. That counts as commitment, right?» This is by far my favorite. Not only does it stay memorable but it also reminds those helpful family members that their input is not appreciated while keeping an already stained situation light. And as a bonus, I have created a whole list of «90 witty comebacks» towards the end of the article that you can use for a whole lot of occasions that might come up.
  • THE ART OF SILENCE: Another favorite is the concept of silence as a strategy. It’s a playful nod to quietly observing while letting others fill the conversational space—and seeing if anyone even notices your strategic reticence. If they do, say you enjoyed listening to everyone as they catch up on what is new in their life.

3. HOLIDAYS YOUR WAY: OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE FUN

Who decided that the holidays have to involve turkey dinners and awkward small talk? Newsflash: You can create your own traditions—ones that don’t require a referee or a therapist on speed dial. The holidays are what you make them. This year, give yourself permission to break the mold and do what actually brings you joy. Here are some ideas to inspire your holiday glow-up:

  • HOST A FRIENDSMAS: Gather your chosen family for a potluck, game night, or ugly sweater competition. Bonus points for creating a theme like «Holiday Movies Come to Life».
  • VOLUNTEER: Shifting focus to helping others can be incredibly fulfilling—and a great way to connect with new people.
  • TRAVEL WITH STYLE: Who needs turkey when instead you can have a tropical beach, a snowy cabin, a spa vacation or a trip around the castles of Scotland? Nothing says peace like sipping cocktails on a beach while your phone is conveniently «OUT OF SERVICE».
  • SOLO CELEBRATIONS: Spend the day doing exactly what you want—whether that’s binging your favorite series, ordering takeout, or taking a long bubble bath with a glass of wine (or two).

4. EMOTIONAL SELF-CARE: WHEN THE GHOSTS OF CHRISTMAS PAST HAUNT YOUR MIND

Even if you skip the family drama, the holidays have a way of stirring up old wounds. Memories of past holidays, unmet expectations, or feelings of loneliness can sneak in like an uninvited guest. Here’s how to keep your emotional snow globe from turning into a blizzard:

  • JOURNALING: Pour out your thoughts, feelings and frustrations onto paper. Journaling helps you process your emotions and ideas, giving you great insight into your «mind mechanics» and allowing you to pick and choose on what can go or what can stay with you for the next year. This reshuffling of the waters prevents roasting, suppressing & stuffing emotions down like last year’s fruitcake. It’s cathartic, private, and way cheaper than therapy.
  • MEDITATION: Take five minutes to breathe deeply and picture your «happy place». (Hint: It’s definitely not Aunt Linda’s dining room.) Picture yourself in a cozy, serene winter wonderland—or a warm, sunny beach in the tropics. Or better yet, let your mind wonder above it all.
  • ENERGY-CLEARING RITUALS: Burn sage, light scented candles, or try sound healing with your favorite tunes to reset your vibe.
  • AFFIRMATIONS: Repeating phrases like «I deserve a peaceful holiday» or «I am worthy of peace and joy» goes a long way when you’re feeling overwhelmed. BONUS TIP: It’s surprisingly effective when paired with a cup of tea or hot cocoa.
  • CREATE AN ENERGY SHIELD: Staying Centered Through the «Holiday Chaos» can be a challenge. In metaphysical practices, one powerful tool for navigating challenging situations—like a family gathering filled with potential drama—is creating an energy shield. Think of it as your invisible armor, designed to keep you «once removed and neutral» in the face of emotional turbulence. An energy shield isn’t about blocking others out completely; it’s about maintaining your sense of self and protecting your inner peace. By visualizing yourself surrounded by a glowing bubble of light—gold, white, or any color that feels protective—you can energetically separate your emotions from the chaos around you.
    Add an intention, like «Only love and positivity may enter», and watch how this simple yet profound technique can transform how you experience the holidays. Whether you’re dealing with intrusive questions, passive-aggressive comments, or just the general overwhelm of a crowded gathering, an energy shield helps you stay grounded and unaffected. Paired with mindfulness and deep breathing, it’s like your personal metaphysical toolkit for the season.
  • AN ENERGY HEALING SESSION or PAST LIFE RESEARCH: Do you have deeper emotional blocks OR emotional baggage that feels especially heavy? Then, maybe the best gift to yourself is a hypertherapy session to help you clear past trauma and reclaim your sense of self. Giving yourself a mental and spiritual detox, helping you clear out the junk and make room for the good stuff while you get ready for the new year. To book a session please follow the prompts:
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5. FINDING YOUR HOLIDAY TRIBE: IT TAKES A VILLAGE (OR JUST ONE GREAT FRIEND)

Who says family has to be related by blood? Your chosen family can bring just as much (if not more) joy to the season. Here’s how to find your people:

  • JOIN COMMUNITY EVENTS: Whether it’s a holiday market, a yoga class, or a volunteer group, there are plenty of ways to meet like-minded individuals to attend. You’d be surprised how many people are looking for connection during this time of year.
  • RECONNECT WITH FRIENDS: Reach Out and call up a friend and suggest a holiday hangout. Chances are, they’re navigating their own tricky family holiday dynamics and will appreciate the invite.
  • TURN TO ONLINE COMMUNITIES: Join online communities or social media groups centered around shared interests. Who knows? Even strangers in a Reddit thread can feel like family when they’re rocking the same ugly sweaters. Your future holiday BFF might be just a DM away.
  • GO SOLO: While leaning on a support network of healthy, uplifting people is a fantastic way to navigate the season, there’s another, often overlooked option: going solo. Going solo is not what you think, and it might surprise you. I know, I know—spending the holidays alone might not be your first choice. You might be thinking, but isn’t this the season for big dinners, group hugs, and matching pajamas? Trust me, I’ve been there.
    Years ago, after leaving home and during college, I spent a lot of time trying to «recreate a family». I thought if I just found the right group of people, I could replace the dysfunction I’d left behind. I tried being the extra guest at friends’ family gatherings, thinking I’d find the warmth and magic I’d always imagined. But here’s the kicker: other people’s families were just as messy as mine—just with different flavors of drama. Eventually, I stopped chasing that idealized version of the holidays and decided to go solo. And you know what? It turned out to be the most liberating, peaceful, and transformative decision I ever made.
    Going solo became my detox time. No guilt trips, no passive-aggressive comments, no emotional landmines—just me, doing exactly what I wanted. I didn’t have to answer to anyone, justify my life choices, or navigate tense dinner conversations. Instead, I cherished the quiet, the calm, and the chance to recharge. Remember, it’s not about the size of your circle—it’s about the quality of the connections. Even one meaningful relationship can make the season shine brighter. And that meaningful relationship just might be with youself.

6. TURNING HOLIDAY PAIN INTO PURPOSE: THE ULTIMATE GLOW-UP

Sometimes, the best way to heal from toxic experiences is to find the lessons within them or an awareness about your next necessary skillset. For some, this might mean volunteering to help others. For others, it could mean journaling, crafting, or simply taking time to reflect. The goal is to shift your focus from what’s wrong to what’s possible. Ask yourself:

  • What have I learned from these dynamics?
  • How can I use this season to honor my growth?
  • How can I learn to create new memories?
  • What new skills will I need to seek in order to navigate the next adventure?

7. SELF-LOVE: THE GREATEST GIFT YOU CAN GIVE YOURSELF

At the heart of it all is self-love. When you choose to honor your needs, protect your energy, and embrace what makes you happy, you’re not just surviving the holidays—you’re thriving. Treat yourself like the star on top of the tree:

  • Splurge on a gift for yourself—something that makes your heart sing.
  • Create a gratitude list to remind yourself of all the good in your life.
  • Carve out time for activities that nourish your soul, whether it’s a walk in nature or a cozy night with your favorite book.

8. CLOSING ARGUMENTS WITH A SIDE OF HUMOR:

The holidays are a time for togetherness, love, and… well, intrusive comments. Let’s face it—family gatherings have a way of turning into impromptu interrogation sessions. Whether it’s questions about your love life, career, or the audacity of your outfit choice, you’re bound to encounter at least one comment that makes you want to escape to the dessert table and never come back.

But instead of letting these moments sour your eggnog, why not arm yourself with a secret weapon: humor? A witty response can disarm even the nosiest relative, turning awkward exchanges into lighthearted moments. Think of these comebacks as your holiday superpower, ready to deflect, distract, or delight, all while keeping your sanity intact.

Here’s the golden rule of holiday humor: it’s not about being mean or starting a feud—it’s about reclaiming your power with a smile (and maybe a touch of sass). When you deliver these one-liners, you’re showing that you’re confident, unbothered, and fully in control of your holiday narrative. Plus, let’s be honest, a well-timed zinger can make the whole table laugh, easing the tension for everyone.

TOOLKIT of 100+ «HOLIDAY COMEBACKS»

Here is the «holiday comebacks» toolkit that I promised. Ready to turn holiday chaos into comedy gold? Here are 115 witty responses to the 31 most insidious holiday comments. Use them wisely—and don’t forget to save room for pie.

«WHY ARE YOU STILL SINGLE?»

  1. «Because my soulmate must be stuck in traffic».
  2. «I guess Cupid lost my address. I’ll follow up».
  3. «Why settle when I have the best relationship—with Netflix?»

«WHEN ARE YOU GETTING MARRIED?»

  1. «Oh, I’m thinking of marrying myself. The proposal is pending».
  2. «When I find someone who loves leftovers as much as I do».
  3. «Marriage? I can’t even commit to a favorite streaming service!»

«WHEN WILL YOU HAVE KIDS?»

  1. «As soon as I master keeping my plants alive».
  2. «I’m still waiting for the stork to text me back».
  3. «Oh, I already have kids—fur babies count, right?»

«YOU’RE GOING TO EAT THAT?»

  1. «Yep, and I’m going back for seconds. Watch me».
  2. «Calories don’t count during the holidays, it’s science».
  3. «What can I say? I live life on the edge».

«YOU’VE PUT ON SOME WEIGHT!»

  1. «Thanks, it’s my winter insulation!»
  2. «I’m just getting into character for Santa auditions».
  3. «Ah, yes, a holiday tradition as reliable as fruitcake».

«WHY AREN’T YOU EATING MORE?»

  1. «I’m pacing myself for dessert domination».
  2. «I’m saving room for my 2024 resolutions».
  3. «Don’t worry, I’ll be back for the leftovers».

«WHAT DO YOU EVEN DO FOR WORK AGAIN?»

  1. «Mostly? I avoid explaining my job at family dinners».
  2. «Oh, just plotting world domination, one spreadsheet at a time».
  3. «I work hard enough to afford this turkey. You’re welcome».

«YOU SHOULD REALLY TRY THIS…»

  1. «Oh, I would, but I’m allergic to unsolicited advice».
  2. «I’m saving my palate for the wine».
  3. «Thanks, I’ll add it to my bucket list».

«WHEN ARE YOU MOVING BACK HOME?»

  1. «As soon as teleportation becomes a thing».
  2. «Oh, you mean after I win the lottery?»
  3. «I’m currently on a no-nostalgia diet».

«WHY DON’T YOU VISIT MORE OFTEN?»

  1. «Because I like leaving you wanting more!»
  2. «I do visit—just not when you’re looking».
  3. «Oh, I didn’t know we had a points system for attendance».

«WHY DIDN’T YOU BRING A DATE?»

  1. «I did—they’re just invisible».
  2. «Oh, I figured I’d let everyone fight over me instead».
  3. «I couldn’t find anyone brave enough for this dinner».

«ARE YOU REALLY WEARING THAT?»

  1. «Yes, it’s my ‘conversation starter’ outfit. How am I doing so far?»
  2. «Oh, you must mean my confidence!»
  3. «Yes, it’s called ‘festive chic.’ Look it up».

«WHEN ARE YOU GETTING A REAL JOB?»

  1. «As soon as I figure out how to moonlight as a Christmas elf».
  2. «Define ‘real,’ because I get paid in actual money».
  3. «Oh, I’m already booked as the family’s resident comedian».

 «YOU SHOULD SMILE MORE».

  1. «I will, as soon as you stop saying that».
  2. «I’m saving my smiles for dessert».
  3. «This is my face when I’m thrilled. Don’t you recognize it?»

«WHY DON’T YOU CALL MORE?»

  1. «I’ve been communicating telepathically—did you not get the message?»
  2. «Oh, I thought we were on a seasonal plan!»
  3. «I figured I’d save all the juicy updates for tonight».

«AREN’T YOU TOO OLD FOR [INSERT HOBBY]?»

  1. «Nope! I plan to be buried with it».
  2. «Age is just a number, and mine is unlisted».
  3. «I’ll stop when you stop commenting on it».

«WHY DON’T YOU EVER HELP OUT?»

  1. «I’m here for moral support and taste-testing».
  2. «I’m delegating. You’re welcome».
  3. «Oh, I’m helping—by staying out of your way».

«DO YOU EVEN LIKE US?»

  1. «Of course! I just show it by limiting my exposure to you».
  2. «You’re all my favorites… in moderation».
  3. «You’re a delight, but so is alone time».

«WHAT HAPPENED TO THAT NICE PERSON YOU DATED?»

  1. «Oh, they’re doing great—probably relieved I’m not bringing them here».
  2. «Turns out, they weren’t as nice as chocolate».
  3. «I upgraded… to being single».

«YOUR SIBLING IS DOING SO WELL!»

  1. «That’s great! I taught them everything they know».
  2. «Amazing! And I’m still the family favorite».
  3. «Thank you for reminding me to lower my bar of comparison».

«YOU SHOULD REALLY THINK ABOUT YOUR FUTURE».

  1. «Oh, I do—daily! It’s filled with naps and pizza».
  2. «Thanks, but I’m focused on surviving this dinner first».
  3. «Trust me, I’ve got my future on the calendar. Somewhere».

«YOUR HOUSE/APARTMENT IS SO SMALL».

  1. «It’s cozy! Minimalist chic is in».
  2. «It’s just the right size for me, myself, and I».
  3. «It’s small but mighty—like my patience right now».

«WHEN WILL YOU SETTLE DOWN?»

  1. «Oh, I’m perfectly settled. The chaos is optional».
  2. «When the world stops being so entertaining!»
  3. «Settle down? I’m just getting started!»

«ARE YOU REALLY GOING TO DRINK THAT MUCH?»

  1. «Well, someone has to keep the spirits bright».
  2. «Oh, I’m hydrating! Fermented grapes count, right?»
  3. «Only until the family talent show begins».

«WHY DON’T YOU EVER LISTEN?»

  1. «I do listen! I’m just selectively implementing».
  2. «Oh, I thought you said, smile and nod».
  3. «I would, but your advice is competing with Mariah Carey in my head».

«YOU’RE SPENDING CHRISTMAS ALONE?»

  1. «Yep, me, myself, and three types of pie».
  2. «Oh, I’m spending it with the VIPs—me and my dog».
  3. «Solo doesn’t mean sad. It means I get the remote!»

«YOU NEED TO TAKE BETTER CARE OF YOURSELF».

  1. «Agreed! Starting with saying no to this conversation».
  2. «Oh, you mean like enjoying this meal guilt-free?»
  3. «I’m doing great, thanks! This pie is step one».

«YOU LOOK TIRED»

  1. «Oh, I’m just glowing from the holiday hustle».
  2. «That’s just my ‘holiday hustle’ chic».
  3. «Thank you—it’s my resting fabulous face».

«DON’T YOU MISS THE GOOD OLD DAYS?»

  1. «Not really—I hear they didn’t have Wi-Fi».
  2. «I miss them as much as I miss dial-up».
  3. «Oh, you mean before unlimited data plans? No thanks».

«WHY ARE YOU SO QUIET?»

  1. «Just recharging for my dramatic exit later».
  2. «Because I’m practicing inner peace—try it!»
  3. «Quiet? I thought I was being a festive enigma».
  4. «Oh, I’m just soaking up all the wisdom in the room. Please, carry on!»
  5. «I figured I’d give someone else a turn—don’t want to hog the spotlight».
  6. «I’m just here for the snacks and the drama. You’re all doing great, by the way».
  7. «Oh, don’t mind me, I’m practicing the art of active listening… or maybe passive hiding».
  8. «Honestly, it’s been so entertaining, I didn’t want to interrupt the show!»
  9. «I’m embracing my inner wallflower. It’s peaceful over here in the corner».
  10. «I was just admiring how everyone’s been catching up—fascinating stuff!»
  11. «Oh, I’m fine. Just letting everyone else shine. You’re welcome».
  12. «I’m playing a game called «See How Long I Can Stay Silent Without Anyone Noticing». Looks like I lost».
  13. «I didn’t want to derail the fascinating discussion about Uncle Bob’s latest fishing trip!»
  14. «I’ve been listening so attentively; I feel like I’ve read everyone’s memoir already».
  15. «Oh, I’m just marinating in the holiday vibes. You’re all so entertaining».
  16. «I’m here for moral support and the stuffing. Keep going, I’m loving the updates!»
  17. «I was channeling my inner therapist—sometimes silence says more, don’t you think?»
  18. «I’ve been busy mentally awarding holiday bingo points. Let me know if you need a recap!»

9. DR. RAMANI’S «HOLIDAY NARCISSISTIC FAMILY BINGO»[1]

Bingo is a popular game of chance where players match numbers on cards to numbers called out, aiming to complete a specific pattern to win.

Dr. Ramani Durvasula, Psychologist and Expert on Narcissism, Author

The holidays often bring a mix of nostalgia, societal pressure, and, for those with narcissistic or toxic family members, a heaping side of emotional chaos. Dr. Ramani, a well-known expert on navigating relationships with narcissists, offers a refreshing take on how to survive the holiday season. She has shared her playful approach to coping with dysfunctional family dynamics in a short video called «Let’s play narcissism bingo!»

For a deeper dive into these strategies or to hear Dr. Ramani’s wit and wisdom firsthand, check out her video press HERE. It’s a must-watch for anyone bracing for the season with a toxic or narcissistic family dynamic. Here’s a quick overview of the video:

How to play narcissistic family bingo

In her insightful and humorous video, Dr. Ramani explains how narcissistic family dynamics resurface during the holidays with predictable patterns. Whether it’s guilt trips, manipulation, or backhanded compliments, the same toxic behaviors tend to show up year after year—just like the dusty gravy boat. Her solution? Instead of letting these moments trigger stress or sadness, turn them into a game.

Dr. Ramani suggests creating a custom bingo card filled with common family holiday behaviors. Here’s how to get started. Mark down anytime a family member gives you an «unacceptable», whatever thing that my be for you. Your unacceptables are whatever triggers your rath or disdain, or feels like a jab in your heart, like:

  • Gives you «unsolicited advice» about your love life, or
  • Someone makes a passive-aggressive comment about your «career»
  • A «political» argument breaks out at the table, or
  • Someone makes a remark about your «political choices» or,
  • Someone tries to give you a «Guilt trip about visiting more often», or
  • What don’t you do more «like them», or
  • That relative one-ups you by making «comparisons with others» or
  • Keeps bragging about «this or that», or
  • Whatever else is «unacceptable to you».

So, here is how the game works:

1. Make Your Bingo Card: Fill it with the predictable scenarios you know will occur.

2.Track the Drama: As each«unacceptable event» to you occurs, mark it off or count it on your score card as a bingo. Much like a 1, 2, 3 etc.

3.Reward Yourself: For every unacceptable point gathered, treat yourself to something meaningful— If I get this many, I will have a massage, a fancy dessert, or even the promise to leave the gathering once you’ve hit your threshold. You get the idea.

Why this works!!!

This playful approach isn’t just for laughs—it helps shift your perspective. Instead of dreading these interactions, you begin to anticipate them as part of the game. By turning toxic moments into points on your card, you create emotional distance and reduce their power to affect you. It’s a subtle but effective way to stay «once removed and neutral», as metaphysical practitioners would say (😉😜).

10. CONCLUSION: YOUR HOLIDAY, YOUR RULES

Rediscovering the Spirit of the Season

Let’s take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of the holidays—not the kind wrapped in paper and bows, or tied to traditions that feel more obligatory than joyful. At its core, the holiday season is about connection, gratitude, and love. And here’s a radical thought: what if that love doesn’t have to be directed outward? What if the holiday spirit begins with self-love?

We’re often told that the holidays are about giving—giving time, gifts, attention, or energy to others. But somewhere in the hustle, we forget that we also deserve to give these things to ourselves. Self-love isn’t selfish; it’s the foundation for a healthier, happier you. It’s what allows you to set boundaries without guilt, choose peace over conflict, and prioritize your well-being without apology.

Your new holiday perspective

What if, this year, you saw yourself as worthy of the same care and consideration you extend to others? What if the holiday spirit meant showing up for yourself, recognizing your worth, and honoring your own needs and desires? Imagine a season where you didn’t just survive the holidays but thrived, feeling lighter, freer, and more joyful.

Self-love might look like saying no to a toxic gathering, or yes to a solo holiday filled with the things that bring you joy. It could mean forgiving yourself for not meeting someone else’s expectations and instead celebrating the choices that align with your heart. It could be as simple as taking a walk on a crisp winter morning, savoring a moment of stillness amidst the holiday chaos, or indulging in the comfort of your favorite traditions—even if you’re the only one participating.

The spirit of the holidays doesn’t have to come from carols or glittering lights. It lives in how we care for ourselves and others, how we choose to let go of what no longer serves us, and how we create space for what truly matters. This year, let the meaning of the season be defined by you. Love yourself enough to honor your needs, embrace your joy, and cherish the quiet moments of peace you’ve earned. After all, the greatest gift you can give the world is a version of yourself that feels whole, happy, and loved—and it starts with loving yourself first.

So, as you navigate this holiday season, remember: the magic of Christmas or any holiday isn’t in the traditions, the gifts, or even the company. It’s in the way you nurture your spirit, honor your boundaries, and celebrate yourself. Let love—especially self-love—be the guiding star of your season.

But if its traditions you want, start by redefining the holidays as an act of self-love and make your own traditions. One of them might be your declaration that your joy, peace, and emotional well-being matter. It’s about shifting your focus from pleasing others to honoring yourself. And the best part? When you embrace this new perspective, the holidays become less about survival and more about celebration. This is your holiday, your rules, and your opportunity to shine. So go ahead—choose joy, choose love, and most importantly, choose you.

Xenia Ioannidis
Healer & Master Teacher of Alternative Therapies
Founder of Real Change Academy
(GrecoDow® & GrecoMastery® Educational Systems)

[1] Bingo is a popular game of chance where players match numbers on cards, to numbers called out, aiming to complete a specific pattern to win.