Today’s Solutions: February 18, 2025

A flurry of family visits might leave you reeling and wondering, “What just happened?” The intensity of spending time with family may be emotionally and physically demanding, whether the commotion has just ended or looms on the horizon.

Psychologists have dubbed this phenomenon “family jet lag,” recognizing the numerous pressures at play during such reunions. A licensed clinical psychologist, Dr. Janelle S. Peifer, emphasizes the weight of familial history, expectations, and unresolved concerns that can make these meetings difficult. Furthermore, the disruptions to our routine caused by such trips might have a substantial influence on our well-being.

Nurturing your recovery: steps to regaining balance
Take advantage of post-visit relaxation

Dr. Peifer highlights the significance of gradually resuming normal life after a family visit. Rather than jumping right into high-energy activities or work obligations, consider restorative techniques. Practicing mindfulness exercises, mild stretches, or simply resting with your favorite shows can help you process emotions and rejuvenate your mind and body.

It is critical to make time and space for healing after a visit. Consider allowing a day between your return and beginning work to give yourself the time you need to recover.

Reestablish routines for stability

The disruption of familiar routines during family gatherings can unsettle your equilibrium. Dr. Peifer suggests gradually reintroducing daily habits—starting with basics like regular meals, adequate sleep, and self-care activities. These rituals provide security and control, counteracting the turmoil of family time.

Maintaining established habits reduces decision-making fatigue, preserving energy during a time when you may be emotionally exhausted.

Creating limits for future gatherings

Consider creating limits that prioritize your well-being for forthcoming family occasions. Creating space for healthy interactions is the goal of setting boundaries, not terminating links. Whether it’s choosing alternative accommodations or planning tactics to deal with triggering circumstances, recognizing these boundaries is critical.

It is critical to adapt and evolve family relations and customs to match your present demands. Seeking the advice of a therapist can help you navigate these changes and manage the stress that comes with family complications.

While family gatherings may continue to be difficult, equipping yourself with boundaries and self-care routines is critical to recovering after a visit. Recognize the importance of changing dynamics and put your mental and emotional well-being first. With these tactics in place, you’ll be able to negotiate family gatherings with grace and resilience, establishing a healthy relationship with yourself and your loved ones.

Solutions News Source Print this article
More of Today's Solutions

England’s largest bird sanctuary expands as a haven for wildlife and rewilding

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In a major victory for conservation and rewilding, RSPB Geltsdale in the north Pennines has grown by a ...

Read More

Drinking more green tea each day may help protect against dementia

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM If you need another reason to reach for that soothing cup of green tea, here it is: a ...

Read More

Washing your hands often? Here’s how to keep your skin healthy

With the COVID-19 outbreak, experts from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are encouraging everyone to ...

Read More

Pakistan’s Billion Tree project is bringing the bees and honey back

In 2018, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan announced the Billion Tree project, a lofty country-wide effort to plant 10 billion trees over a 5-year ...

Read More