Twelve stress-less tips for the holi-daze

Posted December 6, 2023

The holidays can be a mixed experience for people. Not everyone has a holly-jolly time. It can be stressful, depressing, and isolating for many reasons. But there are ways to manage holiday stress and prioritize your mental and physical well-being. No, it’s not more cookies.

Here are some practical ways to reduce stress and get more enjoyment from the season:

1. Plan ahead. A schedule or to-do list will help you stay organized and manage your time. Also, set a budget in advance for gifts to avoid financial duress.
2. Prioritize self-care. Make time for exercise, meditation, or visiting your masseuse or chiropractor to calm your nervous systems and recharge your dopamine. Making sure to get enough sleep will allow you to recharge and re-energize.
3. Delegate tasks. You don’t have to do all the holiday stuff alone. Ask for help from family or friends, and share the responsibilities of cooking, decorating, and gift shopping.
4. Be realistic. Perfection is not necessary for joy. Set realistic expectations for yourself and others, focusing on meaningful moments rather than an Instagram-worthy holiday.
5. Limit commitments. Avoid overloading your schedule with too many social events. It’s okay to say no if you need some downtime. If large gatherings cause you stress, you’re not obligated to host them or attend them.
6. Mindful eating. It’s easy to get carried away during the holidays and feel bloated, run-down, or indigestion distress. Stay hydrated and be moderate with food and alcohol consumption.
7. Connect with loved ones: Spend quality time with your loved ones and engage in activities that strengthen your relationships.
8. Manage expectations: Keep in mind that family gatherings may come with conflicts. Practice patience, empathy, and effective communication. A plan for handling difficult conversations or situations can reduce stress and conflict.
9. Take a break. Step away from the holiday rush by taking short breaks to relax and recharge with activities you enjoy.
10. Practice gratitude. Focus on the positive aspects of the season and express gratitude for what you have. Click here for more ways to practice gratitude. https://tpcportland.com/1056545-being-grateful-is-good-for-your-health/
11. Set boundaries. Establish boundaries to protect your time and energy and communicate those to others so they understand your limits. Politely decline invitations or commitments that are overwhelming.
12. Seek professional help. If you find holiday stress overwhelming and it negatively impacts your mental health, consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor.

Remember that the holiday season should be a time of joy and celebration. These strategies can reduce your stress so you can fully enjoy the festivities with a greater sense of peace and well-being.