Avoiding Stress during the Holiday Season

The holidays are just around the corner! If you’re like so many of us, you’re looking forward to the fun, but your stress level rises every time you add an item to your to-do list. From buying groceries to decorating to planning and attending events, to traveling/hosting family members, to buying presents…. If your blood pressure is rising as you read this list, we have some great tips to help you destress – and dare we say enjoy?! – this holiday season.

1. Avoid the “overs.” Overeating, overscheduling, overindulging, overspending - can all become overwhelming. This season, take control of the holidays so they don’t control you. Set a budget. Say no to events that you don’t really care to attend. Make a plan, and stick to it.

2. Maintain healthy habits. Eat and sleep well. Get outdoors for exercise and sunlight. Schedule downtime to relax by yourself or with friends and family.

3. Set realistic expectations, and live to your standards. Avoid letting friends – and especially social media – determine how your holiday should look.

4. Focus on what really matters. As Maya Angelou famously noted, people won’t remember what you said or did, but they will remember how you made them feel. Few will remember your perfectly basted turkey, beautifully decorated tree, even the gift you stressed over. People will remember awesome fellowship with friends and family. Accept imperfection – the mishap that stresses you out may become the fun family story told for years!

5. Focus on what you can control. If you have to be around family/friends you often disagree with, try to respect your differences, avoid conflicts, forgive the past, and respond with kindness. Set boundaries if you need to, and plan time away from those who cause you stress.

6. Practice gratitude. In a season where people want “more,” be thankful for what you have. Take time each day to thank God for all the blessings in your life. (And see our last blog for great tips on how to instill a sense of gratitude in your children.)

7. Serve others. This is a great way to remember the holidays aren’t about you or your kids. Bake cookies to deliver to first responders. Serve food at a shelter. Greet visitors at your church. You may create a favorite new tradition, and you will model what it looks like to serve others.

8. Experience joy. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle only to find you never really took the time to enjoy the season. Make time to experience the seasonal wonder and truly enjoy time with friends and family.

9. Plan relaxing events and down time. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate by the fire. Drive around looking at Christmas lights. Read the Bible story under the twinkling lights of your tree. Watch your family’s favorite Christmas movie, or plan a pizza and game night. These ideas not only help you unwind but also can become wonderful family traditions.

10. Prioritize time with God. Read the Christmas story. Listen to religious Christmas music. Attend church services. Participate in family advent activities. Carve out time each day to spend with the Lord. (We have some other great tips on keeping your kids focused on Jesus at Christmas coming out in our next blog.)
 
Bonus Tip: Christmas can be hard for people who are alone, who are away from their families, who have experienced a loss, or who are affected by seasonal affective disorder. If you fall into any of these categories, find a friend you can talk to. Remember it’s ok to ask for help, and seek professional counseling services if needed.