7 Strategies to Stay Stress Free this Holiday Season

It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

Shopping, special treats, family time, carols, traveling, house guests, parties, plays, did we mention shopping?

This special season should be filled with new memories and fun traditions that give your holidays special meaning. But sometimes, the holidays can bring meltdowns, depression, and, let’s face it, debt.

What can you do to maintain balance?

Striking a balance between creating magical moments and managing expectations can transform the holiday season experience. Embrace the idea that perfection is not the goal; rather, it's the authenticity of the connections and the joy found in simple moments that truly define the holiday spirit. By setting realistic expectations and focusing on what truly matters, you can cultivate a holiday season that brings fulfillment and joy without the undue burden of stress and financial strain. Remember, the true magic of the holidays lies in the moments of togetherness, love, and the genuine spirit of giving.

So what choices are you left with so you don’t lose your marbles?

 Tips to Stay Stress Free during Thanksgiving and Christmas

1. It is what it is. Each day rather than getting frustrated over something you have no control over, simply accept it and move on to the next thing. Burn the cookies? No one will die from having store-bought cookies. Can’t find that one gift your spouse wanted? They really won’t mind an I.O.U.

2. Hydrate. This may seem silly, but really, we tend to drink less water and more caffeine when we are constantly on the go. Be mindful of how much water you are drinking, and bring along your favorite reusable water bottle wherever you go and sip it every time you get in your car. Dehydration can lead to headaches, exhaustion, and an overall grumpy mood—so drink up!

3. Eat in moderation. There are a lot of treats that seem to pop up everywhere in December, which can be tempting. Don’t be afraid to choose one item and then switch to healthier options. Too much sugar can cause a headache and lead to a sugar crash and decrease productivity.

4. Find balance. Setting boundaries for your time and your diet will not only help your body to stay strong but will also lead to better mental health, decreasing the chance of stress. Remember, the holidays are a time of celebration, but finding equilibrium by incorporating moments of self-care and mindful choices will contribute to a healthier and more enjoyable festive season.

5. Look for shortcuts. If time is your enemy, then shop online. If you can’t decide what to buy that difficult teenager, ask them to create a wishlist on Amazon. Don’t have time in the evenings to cook a balanced meal? Try a delivery service for the month of December.

6. Spend time breathing in the fresh air. A lunchtime stroll a few times of week exposing you to natural sunlight will go a long way to alleviate the blues. If you work from home, consider moving your desk so you have more sun exposure. If that’s not an option, grab your laptop and work outside for an hour. Incorporating these outdoor breaks into your routine not only boosts mood-lifting vitamin D levels but also provides a refreshing pause that enhances focus and overall well-being during the hectic holiday season.

7. Be present. Don’t read that incorrectly, we aren’t suggesting that you are a present. Rather, if you are at work, don’t shop online. If you are at home, don’t check your work e-mail. If you are holiday shopping with your family member, keep your phone away. Multitasking can be good, but it can also lead to exhaustion and frustration. Just be present. Take a moment to savor the experience fully, whether it's the joy of finding the perfect gift or relishing a quiet evening at home. By focusing on the present moment, you can truly immerse yourself in the holiday magic and create lasting memories

Tis the season to be jolly, don’t let this one slip away. Spend time doing what matters.

In the hustle and bustle of the festive season, finding serenity amid the flurry of holiday activities is key to truly enjoying this magical time of year. As Black Friday and the holiday shopping season unfolds, it's crucial to approach holiday spending with a mindful perspective. Reflecting on last year's retail sales and recent years' trends in the United States, striking a balance between savoring the joyous moments and managing holiday sales can make all the difference. From Thanksgiving Day and Small Business Saturday to the mad rush leading up to Christmas Eve, take the time to appreciate the little things—the warmth of decorations, the camaraderie of fellow shoppers, and the joy of celebrating with loved ones. As America embraces the winter season, let holiday cards become tokens of connection rather than stressors. Remember, it's the festive season of giving, but that includes giving yourself the gift of a stress-free and truly enjoyable holiday experience.

Instead of succumbing to the chaos, consider incorporating calming traditions into your festive season and leading up to the start of the new year. Embrace the cozy charm of winter by setting aside a quiet evening for decorating your space with twinkling lights and cherished ornaments. Create a holiday season playlist that soothes the soul, filling your home with the melodies of the season. Opt for a stress-free Thanksgiving Day by embracing simplicity in your meal planning, while enjoying the Macy parade on television in New York. Perhaps even exploring new recipes that allow for more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen.

In the grand tapestry of holiday celebrations, finding solace in the simplicity of relaxation ensures that this season is not just memorable but genuinely enjoyable for all. Prioritize moments of calm amidst the festivities, and let the holidays become a time of cherished memories and tranquility. In this last quarter of the year before January arrives, slow down and decompress. Start the coming year ready to face whatever it may entail.

Additional resources

Dinner ideas https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2010/dec/21/uk-snow-chaos-christmas-dinners

Prepare Your Home https://drliteusa.com/5-ways-to-prepare-your-home-for-a-stress-free-holiday-season/

Set Boundaries https://www.ramseysolutions.com/personal-growth/holiday-stress