The holidays can appear to be filled with joy and magic, but reality is that we spend a decent chunk of it in Stress Ville. There is so much to do and in such a very small timeframe. How are we supposed to juggle regular day to day activities along with gifts, lists, parties and gatherings?
Today I want to write down my tips to managing Holiday Stress, so that I can help out my readers but also to serve as a guide, for even myself to check back to, for those moments where even I start looking like the Grinch...🥴
Focus on What Matters Most:
A lot of us get caught up in the hustle and bustle, we stress about money and having enough to make everyone happy. But that is not what this season is about. It is about time with family, making memories and in 30 years your kids won't remember all the toys you got them, but they will remember the fun traditions you as a family share! The same goes for your spouse, your siblings, your parents and friends.
Just Say No:
The calendar fills up fast this time of year, it's okay to say no to adding another event to the schedule! Your mental health is more important than making an appearance, when in the end it's just going to add more stress. When filling up your calendar be sure to schedule downtime and if someone reaches out on those "downtime days," it's okay to politely decline. This may seem like a "no-brainer" but even if you don't fall into the people pleaser category, there is something about this time of year that makes all of us want to cram in as much fun as we can! Pause, take a step back and ease yourself into the fun this season has to offer, don't overdo it ❤
Treat Yourself:
You're out shopping for everyone, making sure the whole family has a nice holiday and there just doesn't seem to be enough time to relax. Grab yourself a coffee after a long day. Practice self care, and lean into what calms you the most at the end of a long and tiring day.
You are one person, and this is a friendly reminder that you can't do it all alone, reach out when you feel overwhelmed and this is a great opportunity to remind yourself that if you are not taking care of y-o-u, you won't be able to fill up others' cups this year!
Stress Eating:
We all kick ourselves after the holidays because of the amount of sugary treats we consume. While it is mostly fun, I have to wonder if psychologically we eat all the junk to de-stress... My tip is to make sweet stress eating with less junk. It is possible! There are plenty of sugar replacements and many that don't require any ratio changes. My favorite is Monkfruit Sweetener. The best part is most standard grocery stores have these alternatives and you don't have to worry about the dreaded sugar crash with your kiddos.
Another option is to get creative with your creations. I recently saw a protein packed "gingerbread house" made out of pepperoni's, sausages and other types of meat. Sometimes it takes thinking outside of the norm, to still have a fun Holiday activity while also avoiding the sugary rush and crash!
Keep it Simple:
The best gifts are the ones that come from the heart, not with the most expensive gift tag. Try to remember that this gift giving season! Your friends, family and even kids should know that Christmas is not about getting, but giving. Sometimes the simpler gifts mean more than something that could break the bank. I start my brainstorming process early, or write things down throughout the year so that when it comes to shopping, I'm in no rush.
Give Back to Others:
Speaking of the true meaning of the Holiday's, we all get caught up in the selfishness of Christmastime, remember there are those less fortunate than you. Donating your time, resources and energy to a cause can get you back on track to the true meaning of Christmas. Get the whole family in on it, it serves as a great reminder and you can only teach kids by example!
This also serves you! I always feel less stressed and more blessed when I am able to help and when I am reminded to humble myself. It reminds us there is a world out there that has bigger problems than our own.
I know how crazy this time of year can be, but I hope that these tips can help you prepare mentally, emotionally and physically! Have a happy, safe and healthy Season everyone! Much love 💕
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