Deck the halls with boughs of holly
Fa la la la la, la la la la
‘Tis the season to be jolly
Fa la la la la, la la la la
It might be the season to be happy and merry, but it’s all too easy to get stressed and overwhelmed with all the parties and heightened emotions during the holiday season. When you consider that many people don’t eat as healthy as they should and give in to sugar or booze cravings, it’s just a time of stress. People get worried about buying presents, dealing with annoying relatives or even dealing with loneliness.
According to the American Psychological Association, one out of two American women feels added stress during the holidays. Women aren’t the only ones who experience extra stress. Children and men do too. It’s very easy to turn to sugar and alcohol during this time, which isn’t good for you in the long term. If you’re finding that the holidays are getting to be too much, practice self-care and maintain your sanity.
- Take breaks throughout the day. Start your morning with meditation and get off to a good start. Then, make sure you give yourself a few moments during the day to find your center and keep cool. If you find yourself getting frustrated, practice deep breathing in line at the store or in traffic.
- Change your perspective. Sure, Aunt Sophie drives you crazy because she always gives you a fruitcake. Remember that she loves you; she isn’t trying to be annoying. Be gracious and grateful. Wait until after the holidays to discuss changes for next year. This gives you time to find a tactful way to approach people and avoid hurt feelings when everyone is stressed.
- Make good choices with food. Go for real foods that aren’t heavily processed. Lean proteins and vegetables are your friend. Take smaller portions of rich dishes, such as heavy casseroles or luxurious desserts. You don’t have to deprive yourself, but you also don’t have to overdo the alcohol, cream and sugar.
- Say no. It’s very hard to say no to your work buddy who wants you to come over for a holiday open house. But you can say no when you’re getting overwhelmed. Make a point to limit your schedule before you start getting invitations. Choose the parties and events that mean the most and decline the others.
- Get moving. Exercise not only helps your physical body, it’s great for your mental health. Get to the gym. Walk up a flight of stairs. Go ice skating or sledding with the family. Put the electronics away and take care of your body’s needs.
- Learn to be generous with your time and words. You can be generous with money, but if you’re struggling financially, you only add stress to your life. Instead of spending a lot of dollars, give time to your family. Instead of buying Uncle Ted a new tie that he won’t wear, ask him if you can help him with a task that needs to be done. Tell your kids how much you love them. When you act generous and kind, you stay calm and cheerful.
- Take time for yourself during the season. Do something you want to do. Read a book you’ve been putting off. Get a massage. Take a walk in the park. Enjoy the Christmas lights.
Don’t get caught up in making everything perfect. It’s okay if your gifts aren’t wrapped perfectly because the kids helped. Who cares if the pies don’t bake evenly? Maybe your Christmas wreath isn’t everything you wanted. Remember what’s important this season. Families and friends that love you are better than any gift you could buy.