Welcome to Don't Cut Your Own Bangs — the podcast that makes big feelings feel less scary and approaching them feel possible.

I'm Danielle Ireland, LCSW, and today's episode is your Stress Reset: Holiday Boundaries and Presence — your one-stop, low-stress recap of my five-part series Put Down the Panic: A Kinder Guide to Stress.

Think of this episode like a cozy audio love note — equal parts humor, heart, and a gentle nudge to slow down before the chaos of the season pulls you under.

I'm walking you through: - Why exhaustion isn't laziness (it's a signal, not a flaw). - What burnout really looks like — and how to catch it before it pulls you under. - The power of saying "no" kindly (and why that's a gift to everyone). - How to turn down the volume on stress when life gets too loud. - And why your body's signals are the wisest holiday planner you have.

Together we'll laugh, breathe deeper, and hopefully feel seen — because no, you're not the only one who's almost cried during family photos or used caffeine as a coping mechanism.

🎁 Resources Mentioned in the Episode: • The Treasured Journal — 7-part guided journal + meditations for self-reflection • Wrestling a Walrus — a children's book for little people with big feelings • Free Meditation Bundle — 3 calming tracks to ground you when things feel too heavy

If this episode helped you breathe a little easier, share it with a friend who's "powering through." And remember — the magic of the holidays isn't something you create; it's something you allow yourself to feel.

Connect with me: 📺 YouTube: @DontCutYourOwnBangs 🌐 Website: danielleireland.com 📸 Instagram: @DontCutYourOwnBangs