With the holidays quickly approaching people are planning big elaborate meals, shopping trips and trying to squeeze everything into short amounts of time.
Stress comes easily, especially during the holidays…
financial, time, weight, health…
Everything starts spinning like you’re on a merry go round and can’t get off…
What are you going to do this year to not get totally frazzled?
Tips on handling holiday stress
– Learn to say no. You do not have to be at every function, every party. Simply explain you have other plans, you can’t make it, whatever…enjoy the holidays with the people you want to doing what you want and not stressing over events and parties you really don’t want to go to and create havoc in your life.
– Take time (and yes really do it! I find it’s best first thing in the morning, that way nothing gets in the way and there are no excuses.) for yourself and get moving…exercise! Don’t let your physical well being get lost in the hustle and bustle of the season. Do yoga, go for a run (outside or on treadmill for those in snowy, icy, cold weather), take a class, do anything…just keep moving! Endorphins from exercise help you stay less stressed and happy 🙂
– Make sure to get at least 15 minutes a day of alone, quiet time…where you can unwind and just be still.
– I know the holidays are about Eat, drink, and be merry and you can be…within reason. Don’t over indulge on alcohol or food but do enjoy yourself and if you do go overboard then jump back on ship right away and get back on course with healthy eating and drinking habits.
– Delegate…if you’re supposed to hold the big family or office party consider hiring a caterer, have someone else do the preparations and clean up so you can relax and enjoy! Sometimes the extra cost of having someone else do certain things for you is well worth it.
– Let go of perfection. There is no such thing as perfection, so don’t kill yourself trying to achieve it.
– Shop within your budget or give hand-made gifts. Don’t stress over the ideal, perfect gift (that doesn’t exist) and max out credit cards so then you’ll stress when the bills come in as well.
– Breath! Do some four square breathing techniques to help keep you level and relaxed.
If you’re still feeling overwhelmed and stressed, you can also hire a coach to help you learn to deal with stress and new stress management techniques to live by.
Most importantly…enjoy the holidays (and every day!)
Question of the day
Which would you prefer:
prepare dinner or go out?
shopping or relaxing?
Very good simple advice for handling holiday stress! Enjoying the simple things of the holiday season are what make it so great! Keep up the good work.