Embracing the "Not-So-Happy" Parts of Ourselves This Christmas

Embracing the "Not-So-Happy" Parts of Ourselves This Christmas

Today, I want to talk about something we often shy away from: the parts of ourselves that aren’t all joy and smiles. With Christmas just around the corner, this can feel even harder to face.

I recently came across a line in a movie that struck a chord: "Christmas is like a magnifying glass. If you are happy and well inside, that intensifies a million times, but if you're sad or worried, that also magnifies."

This really made me think. The holiday season has a way of bringing everything—our joys and our struggles—into sharper focus. So, in the spirit of self-connection and healing, I’d like to invite you to try a little exercise:

1. Take a quiet seat. Close your eyes and allow yourself to connect with a part of you that doesn’t feel so happy right now.

2. Invite that part of you to meet you. Tell them who you are and how old you are. Then ask them the same: who are they, and how old are they?

3. Ask them why they are sad. Listen closely. What do they need from you? How can you help them?

4. Stay with them for a while. Let them feel seen and heard. You can even ask where they’d like to stay from now on—whether it’s in a safe place they choose or in your heart.

5. Respect their wishes. Whatever this part of you decides, honour it.

   
   

Feel free to share your experience if you feel comfortable.

As for me, I’ve learned to embrace the parts of me that aren’t always cheerful. I’ve learned to sit with them, listen to them, and really see them. These parts of us—though often neglected—are in so much need of being heard, respected, and given the freedom to choose.

Now, I feel joy in being there for them—for myself, really. Offering them what they need has been one of the most healing gifts I could give myself.

This is what my approach is all about: embracing all our parts. We’ve all been through highs and lows, and sometimes parts of us need our attention. It’s about learning to connect to them, truly listen, and offer them the care they’ve been waiting for.

If you have any questions or thoughts, I’m here for you. Let’s take this season to embrace every part of who we are.

Warmly,

Anca