5 Ways to Manage Stress During the Holidays

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Although this year’s holiday season may still look different due to COVID restrictions, it is still meant to be a time of celebration, reflection, and gratitude for your loved ones. But when you are holiday shopping, cooking, decorating, racing to meet work deadlines, and taking care of your family, that joyous holiday spirit may turn into the holiday blues.

Your body, unfortunately, reacts to good stressors and bad stressors in the same way. Cortisol levels rise, neurotransmitter levels become erratic, key nutrients are depleted, and hormone levels become difficult to predict. If you feel your stress and anxiety spinning out of control, below are some practical tips to combat these negative thoughts and feelings so you can enjoy your well-deserved holiday break. 

1. Acknowledge Negative Feelings. Attempting to suppress your feelings will only cause you more distress. Whether you’re feeling sad, angry, or frustrated, own this truth and understand that it’s perfectly fine to express these emotions in a healthy way—even if you’re not spreading the holiday cheer.  

2. Ask for Help. If you find yourself in need of mental and emotional support, don’t be afraid to reach out to someone. The holidays are a time to bond with others, such as family, community members, and even online forums or groups. You may also seek professional counseling. If you feel like the Balanced + Well community could be of help in any way during this time, you are invited to book a free discovery call. 

3. Plan Ahead. A big part of stress management is learning to plan your tasks and goals ahead of time. Set specific timelines and days for shopping, cooking, and other activities. Try not to leave anything until the last minute, so you don’t get time-crunched or overwhelmed.

4. Learn to Say No. Learn to say no to things that stress or inconvenience you—even if these requests are coming from loved ones. You have to prioritize your well-being over extraneous activities. Please don’t feel guilty for taking care of your needs.

5. Cultivate Healthy Habits. 

Take breaks—nap, read, color, watch a holiday movie.

Eat a healthy diet—limit sugary foods (even though it’s difficult during the holiday season), drink lots of water, eat fruits and vegetables, etc. 

Get adequate sleep.

Practice meditation and mindfulness, do yoga, exercise—whatever is going to refocus your mind and energy.

Be kind to yourself and others and spend quality time with your friends and family.

I hope these tips can help you make the most out of the holiday season. We all deserve some happiness because 2021 has been quite the year. For more tips, resources, or to book a free discovery session with me, please click the link below. I’d love to assist you on your balanced + well journey.