While Christmas is known as “the season to be jolly,” it can be a massive source of stress, pressure, and conflict for many people. Some people can feel overwhelmed by the expectations and exchange and become depressed during the holidays. It is ironic that we set apart time for appreciating one another, yet so often end up feeling overwhelmed and under-appreciated. The last thing anyone needs this year is more stress! So, try these Christmas stress-busting strategies to alleviate the strain and help stress melt away.
- Set a budget!
Running low on funds is a common stressor during the Holidays. First of all, make sure that all your usual expenses are accounted for so you do not fall short on bills like rent. Plan for any other spending over the holidays, including any parties you may be hosting or traveling to visit friends or family. Then, experts advise you to set a spending limit. Set a firm line that you will not cross. Something like a $20.00 per person budget for everyone on your gift list is a starting point. Thoughts count more than price tags this Christmas! Our family tradition consists of us drawing names, and shopping and buying for 1 person each!
2. Manage Expectations
Everyone has an idea in their heads of the perfect holiday, but when reality falls short of the vision, stress can ensue. Despite your grand plans, no event ever runs seamlessly, and this also rings true for holiday celebrations. Rather than accumulating stress along the way from any mishaps that might occur, consider these miniature calamities as an opportunity to exercise flexibility and resilience. Dinner being 30 minutes late, spilling food on your festive outfit, or having a lop-sided tree is not going to ruin your day. Alternatively, they’ll create fond memories that you can reflect on in years to come. Carrying the world on your shoulders and trying to achieve everything alone during the holidays can take its toll on your mind and body.
Get some help in accomplishing some of the tasks on your list and take some time out. Teaching our family to help us with large or small tasks actually encourages and develops their own skills to manage stress! Destressing can benefit you and the rest of your family. Focus on doing something that you find relaxing to recharge your batteries, like reading a book, watching a Christmas movie, listening to music, or going for a massage.
3. Get Organized
My following tip to decrease stress levels during the Holiday Season is to focus on getting organized. I’m not suggesting you go completely overboard and deep-clean your whole house, but simple things like setting a daily schedule, keeping your living space tidy, and donating gently used clothing.
The way I like to start my day is by making my bed. This way I have accomplished something and also focused on improving my environment. There is something fulfilling about improving the space around us. Our brains are wired to seek fulfillment by completing tasks.
There are so many ways to unwind, these are just three quick tips to support you this Holiday season. I hope these ideas spark others in you. Every individual is unique! Use your own truths to discover other creative ways to destress. Thinking about the process mindfully is therapeutic in and of itself.