How to Navigate Holiday Stress
By Genevieve Cunningham
Stress. We all have it, and we have it all year long. But there's something about the holiday season that seems to make stress kick it up a notch. We're rushing. We're spending more money than we have. We're worrying and traveling and cooking and cleaning. We're non-stop moving! But do the holidays actually have to be stressful? Or can we learn to manage it and make it easier? If you would like to manage your stress this holiday season, take a look at these tips for navigating the stress and feeling your best.
Ask for Help
You don't have to do it all. We all think that the beginning and end of the holidays rests on our shoulders, but it doesn't The holidays should be a team effort. Stressed about cooking? Ask others to bring dishes. Stressed about presents? Ask others to make you a list of options. The more help you get, the less stress you have to feel on a personal level, and the more you can enjoy the holiday season, too.
Don't Get Caught Up in the Hustle and Bustle
Remember, the holidays aren't actually about presents and money and decorations. While all of those things are nice, the holidays are actually about family and togetherness. If you feel yourself getting overwhelmed, just stop and think about what the season is really about. Stop wrapping presents and spending every dime, and take your family to look at lights or enjoy a show. Do something relaxing all together, and you'll likely notice your stress dissipate in the midst of the fun family time.
Plan Relaxation
Don't forget that you need extra rest during busy times of year. During the holiday season, you're unlikely to find time to squeeze it in, so instead, just plan it. Put relaxation time on your schedule. Get a massage, go for a nature walk, or see a movie all alone. Do whatever you need to in order to recharge your batteries and feel refreshed. While you might feel selfish while you're doing it, you'll feel so much better (and your family will, too!) when you're refreshed, happy, and full of energy all season long.
Stress during the holidays is a given. We're going to experience plenty of rushing around and worrying over all kinds of holiday things. But this will make the holidays less fun and harm your health. Use these tips to navigate the stress through the holidays, and make it through with your mental and physical health intact and even thriving.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Marietta, Ga.