Tips for relieving holiday stress
The holiday season can be a time of increased stress, but there are strategies that can help you cope, whether you're struggling with finances, the increased time commitments the holidays bring with them, or a difficult family member.
With so many demands on your time and resources, it can be challenging to avoid stress, insomnia, depression, and a feeling of being overwhelmed. But these tips will help you manage so you can get through the holidays without worrying about your health. And you might even enjoy the holiday season more than ever.
Acknowledge and allow your feelings
The Mayo Clinic explains taking the time to cry or otherwise express your feelings -- especially if you're dealing with loss or grief -- is very important. Whether you simply can't be with family during the holidays or you have lost a family member or friend, grief can cast a shadow over the season. Ignoring this isn't healthy. Admitting how you feel and talking about your feelings can help.
Take breaks to relax
Connie Bennett, MSJ, CHHC, CPC, in Psychology Today suggests taking several deep breaths or a few minutes to meditate or just relax soon after you wake in the morning. If you get stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed during the day, she recommends additional relaxation breaks of one to five minutes to help calm yourself -- again using slow, conscious breaths to relax your nervous system.
Have realistic expectations
The Mayo Clinic says it's important to let go of perfection as well as traditions and rituals that don't serve you anymore. Holding on to a rigid idea of what the holidays have to be like can cause stress. Letting go and adapting to the current situation is a healthier choice.
Say 'no' to whatever you need to
Don't feel like you have to do it all. Learn to say "no" when you just can't take on another project or commitment. Your friends and family will understand, says the Mayo Clinic.
Don't overdo comfort foods and alcohol
Bennett suggests taking polite portions of pleasure foods and alcohol and having a balanced meal with protein fats and low-glycemic carbs first. The Mayo Clinic also suggests a healthy pre-party snack and good sleep habits.
Keep up your exercise and healthy food routines
Regular exercise has been proven to elevate mood and reduce tension, anger, confusion, and fatigue, says Bennett. Make sure you keep up with your routine even with the additional pressure on your schedule. It only takes one week for regular exercisers to feel depressed when they slack on their routines, she says.