In trying to create the perfect holiday, we might be tempted to overfill our calendars with tasks and our carts with tinsel until we’re overwhelmed. This season, remember that it’s OK to make choices that cut down on the stress to make room for what matters — spending time with loved ones.
Plan and Prioritize What's Important
Create a to-do list and prioritize the tasks that matter most to you. Keep expectations reasonable. Don't be afraid to say no to activities and gatherings like shopping sprees and Christmas parties that cause a strain on your energy or finances.
Follow these tips to stay in the spirit this year.
Set a Budget
Creating memories doesn't mean spending a lot of money. Consider the following ways to save money:
- Plan budget-friendly meals ahead of Christmas.
- Reuse Christmas decorations.
- Buy canned or frozen vegetables or buy them in season.
- Enjoy free traditions like caroling or watching your favorite Christmas movie.
Read more: Plan a less stressful holiday dinner.
Embrace Simplicity
Some of the simplest traditions can become the ones you remember. Consider simple holiday rituals:
- Read books aloud as a family.
- Decorate the tree with cherished ornaments.
- Bake cookies using favorite family recipes.
- Volunteer as a family at a local charitable organization.
- Drive around to look at lights.
Explore: How to keep things festive for your kids during the holidays.
Maintain Healthy Routines
When the season gets busy, commit to healthy choices that help reduce stress:
- Exercise — keep up with your regular workouts.
- Get good sleep — stick to a consistent sleep schedule and get the recommended amount of 7 – 9 hours for adults.
- Opt for healthy meals — choose whole foods like lean meats, nuts, veggies and fruits over premade meals and sugar- and carb-heavy options.
Tips: Clean up your diet without breaking the bank.
Practice Gratitude
Take time to reflect on all that you’re grateful for. Practicing gratitude can look like:
- Taking a break from festivities to relax your mind and body
- Pausing to focus on the joy in the midst of the hard moments
- Breathing deeply or meditating
- Laughing
- Talking with family and friends about favorite holiday moments
Ask for Help When You Need It
Whether you need practical or emotional help this season, leaning on others can do a lot to ease stress.
Think about what tasks you can delegate to others:
- Ask a friend to help with baking.
- Decorate the house together as a family.
- Take advantage of a gift-wrapping station or divvy up gifts for others to wrap.
Sharing these tasks lightens your load and allows everyone to feel like part of the celebration.
Talk to your primary provider to discuss other options if stress is ongoing and difficult to manage.
