HELPFUL TIPS TO MANAGE STRESS OVER THE HOLIDAYS

The holiday season is in full swing!

As we know, preparing for the holidays can elevate our increased sense of family responsibility which will lead to additional feelings of stress. It can lead to heightened anxiety, doing more than we can do, and the burden of being constantly overwhelmed. 

These stresses do not include any work or personal stress you may be experiencing simultaneously. Finding the right work/life balance is as tricky as learning to manage daily stress. It takes time and patience to work through what works best for you during the holiday season. 

Here are some tips to help manage stress and being overwhelmed during the holiday season:

We all want to celebrate the holidays, not only with family, but with our friends too:

o Be mindful not to “overschedule yourself”.

o You don’t have to do it all. Take time to decide what you really enjoy versus doing out of obligation.

o Your happiness is an important consideration in planning how you spend your time.

Manage your travel. If you must travel, do what is reasonable and necessary:

o If flying, try to book direct flights or minimize “connections” to your destination.

o If driving, limit your driving to 1-2 events you truly want to attend.

o Set healthy boundaries and ensure your schedule is reasonable.

Gift Giving:

o Manage and stay within your budget – finances during the holiday can be stressful

• Set spending limits.
• Do not feel obligated to purchase a gift for someone.
• If you are crafty, make a homemade gift or goodie.
• These gifts are seen as special and appreciated.
• Even purchasing a small gift will make people feel appreciated.

Alcohol and Food Consumption:

o Stick to eating healthier food choices.

o Moderation is key – the holidays are filled with scrumptious goodies, but you do not have to partake in everything, and it is OK.

• Plan for special foods you want to consume.
• Wait on seconds – if you want to go back for a second plate of food, take time to sit, talk and take a break to help your food digestion.

o Remember to drink plenty of water – water aids in your digestion process. 

Take much needed time for yourself:

o Don’t feel guilty about taking time for you!

o Read a good book with a cup of tea or hot cocoa.

o Watch your favorite movie, uninterrupted, with popcorn.

o Exercise – whether it is a brisk walk, a bike ride, or the local fitness center.

o Take a nap and recharge.

o Be a volunteer – you can donate time at local animal shelter or food bank.

Remembrance of those lost over the past year:

o Make space for your grief.

o Consider changing up traditions to make feelings more manageable.

o Look into new ways to incorporate the memory of your loved one into your existing tradition(s).

Routine Maintenance:

o Take time to meditate.

o Have a spa day – treat yourself to a facial or massage.

o Make sure to get plenty of sleep.

o Don’t forget to breathe. 

It is OK to reach out if you need help:

o Lean on family and friends.

o Reach out to your primary care provider or therapist for counseling.

o Delegate some holiday planning to others, you do not have to do it all yourself!

There is no doubt, that with the holidays, additional stresses are not far behind. However, with the right tools and frame of mind, you can learn to cope with it in the best possible ways.

Focus on creating a warm and loving atmosphere, maintain your meaningful holiday traditions with loved ones, prioritize the quality time spent with family, engage in festive activities throughout December, remember to be present and appreciate each memory that is made!

Wishing you the happiest of holidays!