Understanding Perspectives
Everyone experiences the month of December with their own lens, availing different perspectives on "the holidays", based on past and current experiences, cultural/religious beliefs, intersectional identities, and the ever-changing impact on our lives from Covid-19.
As we wrap up 2021, it is evident that we all want to spread love and joy to those around us. We do, however, need to be mindful that not all LDSB staff and students partake in the same religious/cultural traditions, or feel the same way about upcoming events.
In these times of uncertainty and irregular isolation, let's work collaboratively to ensure everyone feels supported and part of a caring community.
This newsletter hopes to provide information on and suggestions for how we can notice and name December's "truths", valuing all identities, perspectives, and experiences this season.
Some Considerations for Inclusive Holiday Celebrations in the Workplace:
- "One individual’s experience does not have to stand true for another’s. There is variance in how traditional holidays are recognized by observers.
- Some people don’t celebrate any holidays at all.
- Avoid making assumptions. Not knowing and asking is always better than expressing an assumption expecting validation.
- Inclusive holiday celebrations do not mean a lack of recognition of Christmas. Rather, it means avoiding assumptions about those who celebrate it, not imposing its celebration on others and making space for other celebrations all year."
From: https://lunariasolutions.com/blog-post/holidays-inclusion-and-the-workplace-celebrate-belonging/
Here are 5 Self-Care Tips:
1. Exercise – Exercise is a great mood regulator. It reduces stress, improves mood and concentration and combats depression. Don’t skip your workouts.
2. Express Gratitude – Take time to reflect and appreciate the things that you are grateful for in your life. Little things matter too! Don’t forget to let others know the gratitude you feel.
3. Set Realistic Expectations – There is no such thing as a perfect holiday and this year will be no exception! Ask yourself if your goals are realistic and attainable. If not, stop it! Yeah, I said it. Stop it! Re-evaluate and modify. YOU are doing the best you can under the circumstances!
4. Feel – The holidays can evoke strong emotions (positive and negative) related to losses, relationships and family gatherings. It is okay to “pause” and acknowledge your feelings. Meditating, calling up a trusted friend to have a vent session or simply going for a walk may help to relieve unwanted tension.
5. Live in the Moment – Don’t get so wrapped up in yesterday or tomorrow that you don’t find time to gratify in the reason for the season; moments that make the holidays magical. Take notice of sights, sounds, and smells."
From: https://drgwenscounselorcafe.com/5-holiday-self-care-tips/
Here is a tip sheet from School Mental Health Ontario
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Rest"The constant threat of Covid-19, managing the blurred lines between work and home life, having kids in virtual or hybrid school, worries about the economy, jobs and public policy and not having as many outlets for socialization beyond small outdoor gatherings with social distancing and masks, can be exhausting. Therefore, it’s important to take the time to simply rest. Go to bed early, sleep in, take naps and just let your mind and body recover from this stress and anxiety-filled year." | Reflection"The holidays are also a time to reflect in general and this year is an especially important time for reflection. It’s a chance to gain a deeper perspective on what matters most to you, what your priorities are, what you’re grateful for and how you want to spend your time, given the current circumstances." | Relaxation"There’s no need to feel guilty because everyone deserves a chance to relax during the holiays and also during this crazy year. Relaxation will also allow you the ability to slow down and gain perspective about the pleasures that still exist in the world. You won’t feel as much doom and gloom about the realities of what’s happening when you take some time for enjoyment. Create memories and know that someday you’ll look back on this time with a mix of emotions and feelings, but it will be a time in history you’ll certainly never forget." |
Rest
"The constant threat of Covid-19, managing the blurred lines between work and home life, having kids in virtual or hybrid school, worries about the economy, jobs and public policy and not having as many outlets for socialization beyond small outdoor gatherings with social distancing and masks, can be exhausting. Therefore, it’s important to take the time to simply rest. Go to bed early, sleep in, take naps and just let your mind and body recover from this stress and anxiety-filled year."
Reflection
"The holidays are also a time to reflect in general and this year is an especially important time for reflection. It’s a chance to gain a deeper perspective on what matters most to you, what your priorities are, what you’re grateful for and how you want to spend your time, given the current circumstances."
Relaxation
"There’s no need to feel guilty because everyone deserves a chance to relax during the holiays and also during this crazy year. Relaxation will also allow you the ability to slow down and gain perspective about the pleasures that still exist in the world. You won’t feel as much doom and gloom about the realities of what’s happening when you take some time for enjoyment. Create memories and know that someday you’ll look back on this time with a mix of emotions and feelings, but it will be a time in history you’ll certainly never forget."
The Limestone Lens: We Are All Learning Together
As Limestone District School Board employees, we are all a part of this learning journey. If you have ideas about future equity topics or terminology, please contact Rae McDonald.
