Unwind and De-Stress during the Holiday Season

The holiday season brings a whirlwind of emotions and activities. While it's a time for joy, family, and celebration, it often generates feelings of anxiety and stress. From juggling gift shopping to handling family dynamics, it’s common to feel overwhelmed. In fact, studies show that about 38% of people feel more stressed during the holidays compared to the rest of the year. If you're among them, take heart! Let's explore some effective strategies to help you maintain your peace of mind during this bustling season.

Acknowledge Your Feelings

Understanding your feelings is the cornerstone of managing stress. It's completely normal to experience anxiety during this time of year. Take a moment to express these emotions, whether through journaling or talking to a friend. Research indicates that writing about one's feelings can lower stress levels and enhance mood. By acknowledging how you feel, you're already on the path to addressing your worries.

Set Realistic Expectations

Let's face it: the holidays often don't go as planned. Instead of aiming for a perfect season, consider accepting that flaws can lead to memorable moments. Reflect on what truly matters to you. Is it sharing a hot chocolate with family, watching your favorite holiday movie, or creating new traditions? Focus on these key elements rather than the lengthy checklist of 'holiday perfection.'

For instance, instead of cooking a massive feast for 25 people, why not plan a potluck where everyone contributes a dish? This approach reduces stress and fosters a sense of togetherness.

Prioritise Self-Care

Amidst holiday preparations, self-care often falls by the wayside. However, taking care of yourself is crucial. Carve out time for regular breaks. Even 10 to 15 minutes of stretching or a short walk can reset your mind. Incorporating mindfulness practices like meditation can significantly boost your resilience against stress. A survey revealed that individuals who practice mindfulness see a decrease in stress levels by an average of 30%. Aim to schedule these moments of calm throughout your day to help you keep your cool during the holiday rush.

Simplify Your To-Do List

The pressure of endless tasks can skyrocket stress. Reassess your to-do list and remove items that don’t genuinely matter. Consider meal prepping to save time or starting your shopping early to avoid the last-minute rush. Instead of attending every holiday gathering, think about skipping the ones that drain your energy. Prioritise activities that enrich your holiday spirit. Reducing your responsibilities can free up valuable time to relax and enjoy meaningful moments with loved ones.

Practice Gratitude

One of the simplest yet most effective stress relief techniques is practicing gratitude. Shifting your focus from stressors to positives can lead to significant changes in perspective. Try starting a gratitude journal. Aim to write down three things you're grateful for each day. They can be small, like having a kind conversation or enjoying a warm drink. This regular practice has been shown to increase happiness levels by as much as 25%, providing a powerful buffer against holiday stress.

Limit Overwhelming Social Interactions

The holiday season often comes with numerous social invitations, which can become exhausting. It's essential to recognize your limits. Instead of spreading yourself thin over multiple gatherings, choose a few where you can connect meaningfully. For example, maybe you attend a family dinner one night and a friends' gathering a week later instead of fitting in every invitation. Prioritising quality interactions is more enriching and can keep anxiety at bay.

Make Time for Fun

Amid the obligations, schedule some fun. Engage in activities that lift your spirits—whether it’s baking cookies, decorating, or enjoying holiday movies. Engaging in joyful activities can lighten your mood and remind you of the true essence of the season: love and connection. Building time for enjoyment into your schedule can help you combat holiday stress significantly and bring warmth to the season.

Seek Professional Help If Needed

If despite your best efforts, holiday stress feels unmanageable, it may be time to seek professional help. A counsellor can provide tailored strategies to manage and cope with anxiety. In fact, 70% of individuals who seek therapy report that it significantly helps improve their mental well-being. Remember, you don't have to navigate this on your own.

Embrace the Season with Grace

The holiday season can sometimes feel overwhelming due to societal expectations. By acknowledging your feelings, setting realistic goals, prioritising self-care, and remembering to enjoy life, you can navigate the holidays with more ease.

You are not alone in feeling the pressure of the season. Allow yourself to experience this time authentically, celebrating the little joys along the way. You can truly unwind and appreciate this holiday season rather than merely getting through it.

Wishing you a peaceful and joyful holiday experience!

CELIA MOURIER

Counsellor & Coach