The holidays are meant to be a time of joy and happiness. But often the holiday season produces more stress on your already stressed life by tacking on a long list of tasks, time crunches and unreasonable expectations. It can feel overwhelming and, well, stressful.
As the hectic holiday season approaches, it’s essential to take steps to minimize any stress you may experience. Here are 6 ways to help you survive holiday stress and foster self-care during the busiest time of the year.
Remember the reason for the season.
With the hectic pace, often we get caught up in the commercialism of the holidays and forget the real reason we celebrate. It doesn’t matter what religion you are, the holidays should always be about love and giving back. These concepts are really the most important aspects of almost every belief system.
And even though Santa Claus and Elf on a Shelf are fun diversions, it’s easy to lose sight of the important things in life. Try not to get swept up in the “shoulds” or “expectations” during the holidays.
Remember to have an “attitude of gratitude” and focus on all the good things in your life. You can always name at least 5 things you are grateful for at any time and that can quickly shift you out of a bad mood or stress feelings.
Don’t take on too much.
During the holiday season, there seems to be more demands on your time than at any other time of the year. Between office parties, cocktail parties, kids events and other social functions, it can be hard to find any free time to tackle your to-do lists, yet alone relax and unwind.
You don’t have to accept every invitation that comes your way. It’s OK to say no if you need to. People who truly care about you will understand when you say no to an invitation.
Take time for yourself.
When things are hectic, sometimes you need a break to just be alone and decompress. No matter how much you love your family and friends, everyone needs a time out now and then.
Whenever you get stressed out, anxious or feel overwhelmed, take quick relaxation breaks to calm yourself down. Go outside and soak up some nature: go for a walk in a park, hug a tree, pick up some shells on the beach or pebbles on a trail.
It will rejuvenate you and you will be more productive. Never feel guilty about taking care of your own needs.
Avoid Over-Spending and Shopping Frenzies
The holidays are supposed to be fun right? Most of the time they are. But the holidays can put a strain on your already strained finances and have a tendency to become shopping frenzies.
In addition to the stress caused by extra spending, the very act of going shopping during the busiest season of the year can trigger irritability, anger and frustration.
In the quest to find the perfect gifts or decorations, you face crowded stores, jammed parking lots and massive traffic congestion. It can be daunting.
Keep it simple. Try shopping for gifts online and avoid the crowds and hassle. And keep to a budget. If finances are tight, consider giving a gift that’s personal and comes from your heart. These types of gifts usually are the most meaningful to loved ones. For example, you can make a hand-made card with a message, a personalized poem, or a list or a short video with ten reasons you appreciate this person.
Mind Your Eating
There’s nothing like the holidays to derail your diet. On top of added stress, eating too much sugar and festive foods will directly affect your mood, energy and immune system, not to mention your weight. Be mindful of what you are putting in your body.
Plan ahead and strategize healthier ways to deal with goodies at holiday parties. Maybe eat a healthy snack to fill up before you go, or pack some healthy food for travel days. You might want to increase your supplements and antioxidants during this time as well.
In addition, try taking some calming herbs during this high-energy time. Herbal teas like chamomile and valerian are soothing to the nervous system and licorice root or ginger tea will help calm digestion.
Self Care is Key
As the hectic holiday season approaches, it’s essential to recognize potential stressors, take steps to minimize stress and make an effort to take care of yourself during this time.
Remind yourself that you are in control of your schedule and diet. It’s fine to say “No” to invitations or extra obligations. Take stock of what is most important to you and what you are grateful for. Reserve time for yourself and the people who mean the most to you.
And, go hug a Christmas tree and smell the wonderful bouquet of pine. It will soothe your soul.