It’s a time for family and cheer, but keeping the house clean, cooking, and wrapping presents can be overwhelming. In a time meant for happiness, these factors can cause stress and depression.
You can minimize holiday stress with some important, practical tips. You may even enjoy the holidays more than you thought. During the endless partying, cooking, shopping, and cleaning, follow these 9 steps for stress-free holidays:
- Plan ahead.
There are always going to be some commitments on the same day between coworkers, friends, and family. Make sure you plan what you can attend in person or virtually. Make a menu to help you stay organized and make shopping easier if you’re hosting the holidays.
- Say no.
Don’t feel bad if you can’t make it to all of your holiday commitments. It’ll also relieve some stress. If you have a to-do list, share it with your family.
- Plan spending.
There’s a lot of spending during the holidays. Set a budget and stick to it. You should spend money on your loved ones, but you should also pay your energy bill. Buy gifts you won’t have to pay off until the new year.
- Create relaxing surroundings.
Open the windows on a sunny day, play some music, and light some candles. Listening to music and smelling citrus can boost feelings of well-being, and vitamin D always makes you happier.
- Maintain healthy habits.
Holidays are notorious for ruining healthy habits. Working out in the morning will help you make better decisions all day long. Try snowshoeing or sledding with your family. Keep healthy snacks on hand all season long and fill up before dinner parties with tempting, but unhealthy, foods.
- Share feelings.
Holidays can be hard after a loss in the family. Don’t be afraid to talk about your feelings. You might feel better if you share. You can ease the loss by switching up old traditions.
- Respect differences.
You’ll have to deal with family members who have different viewpoints. This holiday season, try to forgive and forget. Replace tension with something productive, and focus on your similarities.
- Be realistic.
You’re only one person, so you can only do so much. Be realistic about how much you can handle this season. Enjoy the company around you and forget about perfection.
- Take a break.
Make sure you take care of yourself. Try taking a nap, going for a walk, reading a book, or watching a funny movie. Stress and tension can be relieved by laughing.
There’s nothing better than spending time with family and friends during the holidays. Taking these tips into account can help ensure that you enjoy your holidays.
