As much as we love to celebrate the Holidays, they can bring a boat load of stress and overwhelm to our lives. It can be extra hard for people when the sunlight is gone so early and it is cold outside. Those suffering from seasonal depression have a hard time around the holidays.
There is so much to do but people don’t usually enjoy getting bundled up to go out into the cold for shopping and other holiday tasks.
This article is for those who need some stress relief ideas to get them through the holiday struggle.
How to reduce stress and enjoy the holidays:
1. Make sure you’re getting time for yourself. Arrange some time to spend alone to think and process everything going on around you. Find a babysitter for the kids if you need and think of your favorite things to do. Set aside as much time as you can to do relaxing things you like. Even if it means getting the house to yourself so you can drink wine and decorate your house in peace.
2. Work it out. Go to the gym or get some enjoyable exercise a couple days per week. Even if you feel like you don’t have much energy, you would be surprised to know how much better you will feel if you can squeeze in a couple of workouts during the week. Exercise releases happy brain chemicals to make you feel much better and help you think more clearly.
3. Include yourself in your Christmas lists. Get a few items for you to reward yourself for everything you’ve done right over the last year. Everyone should get something for themselves for Christmas while they’re busy gifting friends and family.
4. Ask for help from those who care for you. Who is your support system? Does your community have a support system for you to utilize? Is there anyone that you’ve been helpful for that could possibly return a favor for you and help you get caught up? Something as simple as having them come over to help you with the laundry, dishes, cleaning, or other tasks can make a big difference.
5. Watch your budget carefully. Don’t take out extra credit cards or overdraft your bank account just to give some material items to people you love. Know your limits, get creative, and only spend what you can afford to spend. Lack of money is a huge contributor to holiday stress. Don’t dig yourself deeper than you can get out of.
Use these tips and get the most out of your holiday season this year. Be safe, take care of yourself, and have fun this year!