As the holidays approach, many of us return to familiar traditions, special meals, gatherings, music and rituals passed down through generations. Traditions can be beautiful. They connect us to our culture, strengthen family bonds and offer comfort and familiarity during stressful times.
But not all traditions feel good to everyone. Some bring pressure, painful memories or expectations we no longer have the energy or desire to fulfill. Many people continue traditions simply because “that’show it’s always been done.”
This season, it’s okay to pause and ask yourself, “Does this tradition still bring joy, or just obligation?”
The upside to traditions is they build connections and a sense of belonging, preserve cultural and familial identity, create meaningful memories across generations and offer stability during difficult times.
Traditions may become stressful when they trigger old emotional wounds, fall heavily on the same person every year, potentially place strain on finances/energy and foster guilt when you want to do things differently.
Consider a healthier approach. Keep what feels meaningful, simplify what feels heavy and release what no longer fits your life.
Consider asking yourself: Is this tradition bringing peace or stress? Can it be shared, changed or replaced withsomething new?
Traditions should enrich your life — not exhaust it. Choose what supports your well-being and feels true to who you are today. Your mental health matters, this season and every season.
(Christina Martinez, LCSW, is the Program Manager of the Los Banos Clinic of Merced County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services, located at 40 W. G. St., Suite C, in Los Banos.)
