When the Holidays Stir Old Emotions: Simple Reminders for the New Year

Christmas is already behind us. If you made it through, congratulations. Why do I say made it through? Because for many people, Christmas is not only about warmth, lights, and togetherness. It can also be emotionally demanding—especially when we gather with family. Ram Dass once said something profoundly honest: “If you think you’re enlightened, go spend a week with your family.” There is deep wisdom in these words.

It is often far easier to feel calm and centered in solitude or on retreat than it is in close relationships. Family gatherings have a way of touching old emotional patterns—memories, wounds, expectations—that we may not even realize are still active within us. In those moments, we may react instead of respond. We may cling, judge, or withdraw. Many times, I have witnessed how quickly a person’s emotional pain body becomes activated during family events—how suddenly anger, defensiveness, or overwhelm takes over. So if Christmas stirred something in you, please know this: you are not alone, and nothing is “wrong” with you.

Now, as the New Year approaches, there is often excitement—a sense of turning a page. And while the calendar change can be meaningful, in truth, every morning offers us a fresh beginning. Each time we wake up, we are given another chance. Another blank page. Another opportunity to meet life with a little more awareness and kindness. Still, since we naturally pause and reflect at this time of year, here are a few gentle reminders to carry with you into the days ahead.

new year

Slow down before you move forward.
There is a strong impulse to fix things immediately—to solve problems, respond to messages, make decisions quickly. But when emotions are intense, clarity is usually absent. You may have heard the saying: when emotions are high, intelligence is low. Not every issue needs an immediate solution. Sometimes the wisest response is to pause, breathe, and allow understanding to arise on its own. Especially when something triggers you, give yourself space before reacting.

Be mindful of what you allow into your inner world.
Thoughts, conversations, media, and emotional environments shape how we feel far more than we realize. We live in a time of constant stimulation—news, politics, conflict, division. Pay attention to what you consume and what you dwell on. Thoughts gain strength when we feed them with energy. It is much easier to gently release a thought when it first appears than to stop it once it has gained momentum. Protect your inner space. It is okay to step away from conversations or information that feel heavy or harmful.

Do not judge yourself for how you coped.
This is a big one. So many people carry shame for past actions, reactions, or even thoughts. Please remember: you did the best you could with the awareness you had at the time. We are all learning, all growing, all making mistakes—and then learning again. You are not meant to be the same person you were a year ago, and you won’t be the same person a year from now. Growth includes falling down and getting back up. Be gentle with yourself.

Create at least one quiet moment each day.
We live in a world that rarely stops. Technology keeps us constantly connected, yet many feel more isolated than ever. Even five minutes of stillness can make a difference. Sit on the edge of your bed. Take a few slow breaths. Place a hand on your heart and say a few kind words to yourself—whatever feels sincere in that moment. Something as simple as: May I feel safe. May I feel calm. May I feel peace. These small pauses can subtly shift your inner state.

Release what no longer belongs to you.
Old fears. Lingering guilt. Emotional burdens you’ve been carrying for years. You already know what weighs you down. The New Year is a natural moment to loosen your grip and let go—gently, without force. You don’t need to carry everything forward.

Trust that life unfolds according to a greater plan.
Even when you are simply surviving, that is enough. Life is not a straight line of success or happiness. It moves in waves—up and down, expansion and contraction. There will be moments of clarity and moments of struggle. Both are part of being human. Trust that you are exactly where you need to be, even when it doesn’t feel that way.

As the New Year approaches, may you meet yourself with patience rather than pressure, compassion rather than judgment, and quiet trust rather than fear. One day at a time is enough.

About the Author:

Marianna oversees the daily operations of The Dr. Wanda Pratnicka Center, skillfully advising staff members on guiding clients through the spirit removal process. Her efforts extend beyond management; she is dedicated to raising awareness about the phenomenon of spirit possession, utilizing various platforms including events, books, and digital media. In her leisure time, Marianna delights in gardening, immerses herself in reading, and explores new natural wonders.

Stay tuned for enlightening new blog posts EVERY SUNDAY - your weekly dose of inspiration and guidance.

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