The holidays can be a stressful time. Stress will affect your body and mind in a negative way, so learning how to handle the stress is a good idea. Stress can make you look tired and worn out, and who wants that? We can help you find some ways to beat the stressful feelings around the holidays.
If you have a to-do list, that is great to keep you organized, but don’t overdo it. Find things you can actually skip this year. It won’t be the end of the world if you don’t bake every one of grandma’s cookie recipes or hand write cards. Give yourself a little break where you can. Set some priorities and reduce the number of things to do on your list.
If you want to send out holiday cards, that is fine, but spend your time on the people that mean the most to you. Emailing and calling friends and family can be a nice change of pace and a good way to stay in touch. People will appreciate that you are thinking of them and making an effort to connect.
Instead of a getting all your friends a gift, share an outing together. You can go out to eat, or catch a movie. A cookie or baking exchange is fun sometimes, too. Sharing experiences with your loved ones will make more memories than any gift could.
Do you always cook holiday meals? Try a potluck type meal instead. Let everyone make a contribution to your dinner. You want to be able to visit with everyone and not be in the kitchen all day. If there any foods that can be made ahead, do that as well to save you some time.
To save time decorating concentrate on the rooms where your guests will be hanging out. Use only your favorite decorative items. You don’t have to do tons of decorating to have your home look festive and welcoming.
Whenever you feel yourself getting tense and stressed out, just take a moment to just relax and remember the joy of celebrating the holidays with those you love.