Ride The Lifetrain w/Chuckie

Hey Passengers, I was thinking, is nostalgia a disorder of the imagination, where the mind is dwelling upon past memories and loses interest in the present situation: a mood disorder.  Is it a longing for pleasures, experiences, or events belonging to the past.  Have you ever done as I have and caught a memory brought on by an aroma, a song, an old movie, a picture, that could send you back many, many years?

Although nostalgia is not depression, it can lead to depression.  For nostalgia to be normal, it must contain a depressive component that is related to the recognition that the past is irrevocable.  In its pathological form, the mood contains only the elated aspects without the acceptance of loss, or what could be described as bittersweet sentiment.

Homesickness deals with the nagging thought that perhaps we made a terrible mistake in leaving the comforts of our old life, which may bring a temporary phase of loneliness and depression.

I’ve figured out along this ride on the Train that there is never any benefit in longing for what once was, but rather much joy in exploring what is. I always “TRY” to focus on the present and think positively.  This approach reduces some of my frustration and unhappiness as well as builds my confidence to live in the spirit of the holiday season.

To really enjoy it during the holidays, we’ll first need to temper our expectations.  Forget about what’s “supposed” to happen.  Remember that lots of people out there are doing what’s expected, and probably running themselves a little ragged.

Some degree of loneliness is normal during the holidays.  There is nothing abnormal about having the “holiday blues,” which are more like a mood than any sort of lasting condition.  I’ve researched and believe that depression, anxiety, and other psychological symptoms are associated with the holidays because this season brings back memories of a happier time in our lives.  So, plan a holiday where loneliness doesn’t dominate.

Carving the turkey with friends and shopping for a gift for someone special is a part of life during the holidays.  Drowning your troubles in egg nog and pigging out on holiday candy is not the solution.

Doing the holidays solo?  Being alone is a challenge for many people.  Not being coupled during all the various gatherings can leave singles feeling left out, sad, and empty inside.  What can you do to make the holidays joyous rather than depressing?

If you are feeling alone during the holidays because of a death, divorce or separation from your loved one or if you are feeling obligated to visit or entertain friends or relatives that you would rather avoid,  perhaps the following guidelines may help minimize the “Holiday Blues.”

One thing to remember: There is no cure-all for the holiday blues, however it is important for you to understand that the only person in charge of how you “feel” is you.

Now wait…hold on, before you get defensive about that statement, I suggest that you take a closer look at the real issue that brings on this feeling.  It is not always in our best interest to allow what we “think” to color how you feel.

Understand the difference between the holiday blues and holiday stress. Holiday blues are feelings of loss or sadness because we can’t be with people who are special to us.  Holiday stress is often caused because we believe we need to be with some of those people.

Feeling down is not all bad. It allows us to see that something in our lives is not working.  If you listen to your depression, it may help you make changes in your life.  Embracing the “blues” in a positive way can be a good thing.

For many people, the holidays are a traditional time of happiness and festivity.  However, for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one, the holidays are a time of mixed emotions; hang in there Ms. Geri.  So as we look to tomorrow, be aware of what triggers your emotions.  Do your best to accept that your emotions will vary during the holidays.  Make time to deal with your emotions. Have a good cry if you need to, punch some pillows and shout out loud about how angry you are.  But then, as best you can, let it go.  Catch the fish, look at it, then put it back in the water and watch it swim away, let it swim away and be done with it.

4Get Yesterday…it’s done

Dream of a better tomorrow!

All Aboard, The LiFeTrain!