When the Lights Feel Dim: Navigating the Holidays in a Dark Season

The holiday season is often described as a "whirlwind of magic." But for many of us, that whirlwind doesn't feel like sparkling snow and festive music; it feels like pressure. It feels like an amplifier for loneliness, grief, or a heavy sense of overwhelm.

I want to be completely honest with you today: I am navigating a "dark season" of my own.

If you were to walk into my home right now, you would see a Christmas tree standing in the corner. But if you looked closer, you’d see there are no presents under it. To be transparent, I haven't felt like "doing" Christmas at all this year. While the world outside feels bright and festive, my inner world feels heavy. I am struggling to create that traditional sense of holiday joy in my own home.

If you are finding yourself in a similar place—where the decorations feel like a chore and the carols feel out of sync with your heart—I want you to hear this: You are not alone.

Lowering the Bar

We often feel like we have to "fake" a smile to be worthy of the season, or that we’re failing if we aren't brimming with holiday spirit. But your worth isn't measured by how many parties you attend or how perfectly your mantel is decorated.

My biggest piece of advice for those of us in the trenches right now is to give yourself permission to lower the bar.

You don't have to do it all. You don't even have to do most of it. Sometimes, the greatest win of the day isn't finishing a workout or hosting a dinner—it’s simply showing up for yourself in small, quiet ways.

One Foot in Front of the Other

In seasons like this, progress doesn't look like a leap; it looks like a single step. For me, that means putting one foot in front of the other, even when the path feels dark. It means:

• Acknowledging the pain instead of sweeping it under the rug.

• Prioritizing rest when my soul is weary.

• Finding grace for the things that are left "undone."

Be Gentle With Your Heart

As we move through this week, please be gentle with yourself. If all you can manage is a quiet cup of tea and a few deep breaths, that is enough. If your "holiday cheer" is simply making it through the day, that is enough.

We are a community that values strength, but remember that true strength often looks like vulnerability. It looks like admitting we’re struggling and choosing to keep going anyway.

Sending you so much love and peace. We’re putting one foot in front of the other, together.

With warmth and honesty,

Elizabeth DeHart

Elizabeth DeHart Fitness