Like they say in the song, Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year! And while the holiday season can be filled with happiness and joy, it can also be filled with stress and anxiety. With the pressure of buying gifts, financial strain, cooking, cleaning, entertaining and so much more, it can be tough to take a step back and enjoy this time of year. Luckily, with some simple tips, you can reduce stress and enjoy this holiday season with the ones you love. Read along to find out a few tips for relieving holiday stress.
Make Time For Yourself
The holidays often come with a great amount of togetherness. While this can be a good thing, it can also cause unnecessary stress for some. Make sure to carve out time for yourself, where you can unwind and relax. Meditation and mindfulness can be a fantastic way to focus on you and relieve stress, even if you only have twenty minutes to yourself. Many people focus on giving and helping others during the holidays, and while that is important, it is just as important to check in and take care of yourself.
Set A Budget
One of the main reasons for holiday stress is the financial strain that often comes with the season. With gift giving and party hosting, it can be easy to swipe the credit card without realizing just how much you’re actually spending. Before you do your shopping, decide on a budget you are comfortable with and stick to it. This will reduce being shocked by your credit card statement later on and take away some of the stress you typically feel this time of year.
Eat Healthy
For many people, the holiday season is full of delicious, decadent food and plenty of festive cocktails. While it is okay to indulge in moderation, it is important to make sure you’re still fueling your body with the nutrition it needs. Plan ahead by preparing healthy meals and eating at home, or if you’re heading to a party and bringing a dish, choose something on the healthier side that you and your friends can enjoy. Eating healthy will keep you feeling your best and let you enjoy the season.
Stay Active
With the weather getting colder and the sun setting earlier, it can be easy to want to skip your workout and spend your evenings cuddled up on the couch. Add to that the busyness of the holiday season, and you may be tempted to forget about your workout schedule for a few months. Not only is exercise necessary for your physical health, it is extremely beneficial for your mental health as well. Even if you don’t have time to get to the gym multiple times a week, a walk around the neighborhood, an at home workout, or a yoga class can get your blood pumping and ease your mind.
Talk to Loved Ones
Suffering from stress and anxiety can feel very isolating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Enjoying time with family and surrounding yourself with loved ones is the best part of the holiday season. Talking to a loved one, who has likely experienced these same feelings, can help relieve some of your stress. A simple phone call, text or a chat over coffee can calm your nerves and offer the support you may need. It is very common to experience stress during this time of year, and surrounding yourself with people who love you and understand can be comforting.
Don’t let this wonderful season become something you dread. As the stress builds, remember these tips and find ways that work for you to take care of yourself and ensure you’re enjoying the holidays with the ones you love. From everyone here at Southwoods Health, we wish you a happy and healthy holiday season!