In this solo episode, Dr. Patty Shutt explores why the holidays—often portrayed as joyful and bright—can actually stir deep emotional triggers, especially for those with early attachment wounds or complex family dynamics. Drawing from her own reflections and clinical experience, Patty shares how mindfulness, self-compassion, and awareness of nervous system patterns can help us move through the season with more care and grounding.

Whether you find yourself over-giving, over-scheduling, or feeling anxious before family gatherings, this episode offers gentle tools to prepare, regulate, and find moments of genuine connection amid the chaos.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why the holidays can activate old family patterns and attachment wounds
• How the nervous system prepares for rejection, judgment, or disappointment
• Common survival responses (fight, flight, freeze, and fawn) that surface during family gatherings
• Mindfulness practices to notice triggers before they take over
• Self-compassion strategies for soothing and grounding when activated
• How to set boundaries, create new rituals, and give yourself permission to opt out when needed
• Ways to support others who might be struggling this season

Key Takeaway:

You don’t need to perform joy to belong. Slowing down, noticing what’s happening in your body, and meeting yourself with compassion can transform how you move through the holidays—and your relationships. #GiftofPresence

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