How to set limits in the holidays (and actually enjoy it) with Niro Feliciano

Does anyone else feel like the holidays keep getting crazier and crazier? Busier and busier? On the podcast this week is Niro Feliciano. You may recognize from her regular appearances on The Today Show. She is a certified cognitive therapist, the co-founder of Integrative Counseling and Wellness Group in Wilton, CT and the author of All is CALMish . I love her professional insight and perspective on the pressure of Christmas. She reminds that the mental health of our families will benefit as we prioritize our presence over the perfection of Christmas. Niro reflects on the significance of holiday celebrations and the importance of meaningful connections of superficial interactions. She shares her journey of reevaluating how she celebrates the holidays, empathizing with the need for deeper connections with loved ones and a more intentional approach to social gatherings. My favorite part is when Niro encourages us moms to find “micro moments of joy” during the holidays. As a mom, we can spin our wheels to make everything magical for all and we forget to encounter Jesus and take care of ourselves. What are some little things you can do to dial in the peace and joy and dial out the pressure and stress? Before we dive right into the same Christmas chaos, let’s pray for God to order our days. How can we spend more time in the presence of Jesus? How can we focus on being over doing? What traditions and parties and commitments can we delete or pause to add more capacity? Enjoy! Courtney Chapters: 00:00 Navigating Holiday Stress 03:00 The Pressure of Perfection 06:07 Creating Meaningful Traditions 08:59 Connection Over Perfection 12:00 Finding Joy in Giving 14:55 Holiday Experiences in the City 15:32 Embracing the Holiday Spirit 18:20 Navigating Family Dynamics 25:31 Setting Boundaries for Joy 27:50 Modeling Joy for Future Generations Connect with Pardon The Mess: Christian Parenting Pardon The Mess Courtney DeFeo ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW Resources from today’s show: Connect with Niro All is CALMish - Niro’s new book Light ‘Em Up Acts - ideas for giving NIV Application Bible Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube ! Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out Everyday Dose and use my code MESS for a great deal: https://everydaydose.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy