I've always loved the holidays. From festive decor and bustling activities to spreading cheer, Thanksgiving and Christmas hold a special place in my heart. The older I've gotten, however, the more another feeling has weighed heavily on me: stress. From gifts to buy and wrap, events to attend, finances to budget, and traditions to celebrate, it seems like there is little room left to actually rest, breathe, stop, and enjoy the season. Holiday joy is present, but so is holiday anxiety. If you're feeling heavy, overwhelmed, and burdened, here are five gentle ways to protect your mental health when gratitude season doesn't feel good:Photo credit: GettyImages_Oksana_Bondar