The holiday season is probably best known for being the most festive and the most stressful time of year. From the parties and presents to fighting the long lines at the stores to buy gifts, it is common to have your stress level higher than usual. However, there is no reason why you cannot take a preemptive strike against holiday stress. Here are some great ways to enjoy your holiday season without getting overwhelmed and overstressed:
- Plan as much as possible. It may sound simple, but it works. When you have a plan, you know exactly what you have to do and can do as much of it ahead of time as possible. It also removes the stress of worrying that you might forget something.
- Have a sense of humor. Even with a plan, glitches can happen. But you should not let them rattle you. Nothing catastrophic will happen if your daughter’s favorite doll is sold out at the store or if you ran out of butter for your meal. Minor setbacks are just that—minor. Stressing over them will not fix them, so just roll with the punches and accept the fact that life is unpredictable which is what makes it so exciting in the first place.
- Work up a sweat. If exercise is already a part of your routine, keep it up. Exercise has been proven to reduce stress by releasing hormones that provide you with a sense of euphoria that can take the edge off. If exercise is not something you regularly do, try incorporating it into your day a few times a week. Even a short, brisk walk or a yoga class can do the trick—especially when you feel like stress is beginning to take over your life.
- Take some time to yourself. You are not being selfish if you decide to do something for you and not everyone else. Most likely you have been running around buying gifts for friends and family, or planning a big holiday meal. So why not take just an hour to unwind and recharge? Often, holiday season stress is brought on by all the things you are doing and trying to get done. Take a break, enjoy some “me” time and re-energize yourself so you can continue about your holiday plans stress-free.
Do not let yourself become overwhelmed by the holiday season. It is a time to enjoy the company of friends and family. What it does not mean is stressing yourself out and driving yourself into the ground. These tips should help keep the stress under control so you can enjoy the spirit of the season.