#TechniqueTuesday – Surviving the Holidays Part 1 – Mental Health & the Actor
’Tis the season! As we are still feeling the effects of the Halloween candy we now step into the real heart of the holidays. Hallmark films will abound, family gatherings, feasts, get-togethers with friends, shopping, shopping, shopping and probably here and there a dose of the blues . . .
As actors we know this time of year auditions will dwindle, projects will be pushed to next year, agents will be trimming their lists . . . adding all that to the ups and downs of the holidays can be a set up for the perfect storm—the kind even Rudolph may not be able to navigate.
So what are somethings we can do to preempt the pit falls of the holidays?
First things first—keep acting. Even if you don’t have auditions, even if classes take a break—or you’re too broke from gift-giving to afford them. Work on your acting. Daily. Do voice work, move your body, work on monologues, work on scenes with actor friends. Keep your chops up. Not only will that keep you primed as an actor, but it will also make you happier, as it boosts your serotonin and dopamine. Why? Because if you are an actor, doing acting is fulfilling. Why? Because actors have to act. If we do we’re happy, if we don’t we’re not. Just the nature of the beas
Have you considered creating a daily acting practice? If not, you should. Even if you start with just five minutes a day. In the Book Atomic Habits by James Clear, he talks about the power of building habits. You start out small and keep consistent until your practice becomes a habit. Meaning it is moved out of the decision-making part of your brain. At that point you don’t have to put energy into waffling about whether or not you’re going to do it—you just do. This holiday season may be just the time to hone that habit.
Next, what about family gatherings? They can be fun, they can be a drag, but they usually are an unavoidable part of the holidays. Experts say planning ahead for them can help ease some of the stress. Maybe last year you just did too much? Went to too many things? Maybe this year you can look at your calendar and ask yourself which do you really want to attend? Which do you feel you have to attend? Can you be more picky about your choices? There is nothing wrong with having boundaries where family is concerned.
Same thing goes for friends’ gatherings. Getting together with friends is always fun, but being overwhelmed with social engagements can be frazzling. And one thing a lot of us forget is how much energy the holidays take. We don’t want to be exhausted come the first of the New Year when auditions start picking up again. So be selective about how you spend your time. Push friend’s parties back to mid-January or February. Book a spa day with them. Or just go somewhere relaxing all by yourself.
And what about overeating? Yeah. It’s something we all do this time of year. Trying to keep things balanced is the key. Of course, everyone stuffs themselves at Thanksgiving Dinner. That’s a given and there’s nothing wrong with that—it is after all a feast. Other than that eating smaller meals throughout the days is recommended by most nutritionist as well as keeping food choices more healthy than not. But there’s no need to skip the pumpkin pie or Grandma’s apple strudel, for heaven’s sake.
Also remember to keep up your exercise routine. Gyms only close on the actual holiday days. And you can always take a walk. Although the holidays may not be the perfect time to slim down, they don’t mean you have to pack it on either. Be aware of what you are doing with your body. Aim to make choices that will make you feel good in the long run.
And then there’s gift-giving. When does it go overboard? It’s so fun to find the perfect something for a friend, relative or spouse. But that said no need to run yourself ragged or max out the credit cards. Thoughtful gifts are always the best. Really thinking about what that person may want or need can change the way you approach your shopping. Or sometimes finding out the person’s favorite charity and giving to them in leu of chocolates or another pair of elf socks that will end at Goodwill is a better idea.
Two more things—Tricky Relatives & Traveling Safe.
Tricky Relatives—Again boundaries. If you go to the family holiday dinner and your auntie comments about your size, hair, single-status, or whatever, let this year be the year you politely pull her aside and let her know you’d rather not discuss those kinds of things in the future. If that is impossible just give her a hug and say, “Oh, you’re so sweet.” And move on to talk to your cool cousin.
Traveling Safe—Planning ahead can help. If you are flying, pack early, and pack light. You probably don’t need to take half of what you think you do. Do plan to bring or buy a house gift for you host or hostess if you’re staying with someone. If you are driving, same thing. And watch the weather. Especially if driving. Canceling at trip is always a better idea than braving a blizzard and ending up in an accident. Always have back up plans in case the trip falls through. Even if it’s a quiet celebration safe at home.
Hopefully this gets you geared up and holiday ready.
Remember, above all have fun and be safe, but also make time for your acting!
And last but not least, stay present and connect with those around you. Here’s a super fun video that shows what can happen if you don’t . . . 😉
