It’s a pertinent question for this time of year when many of us are with family and loved ones.
Psychology tells us that emotions are contagious. As are beliefs, values and attitudes. Funnily enough, even our weight is influenced by those with whom we spend most time. And major life decisions like divorce. There is evidence that people’s heart rates synchronise with physical proximity.
Along with festive cheer, the holiday season can be characterised by long-standing family tensions.
Is there anything we can learn about ourselves from these tensions?
To what extent can you identify aspects of yourself – your own mood, values, ways of being – in your family and loved ones?
And to what extent does this offer an opening for greater empathy, connection and understanding at this special time of year?
Happy holidays everyone.
