Make Your Holidays Less Stressful With These Tips
By Brandi Goodman
Stress levels are at an all-time high for many people during the holidays. There's so much to do and accomplish before the season is over. Consider a few tips and help yourself make your holiday less stressful. You'll be able to enjoy them more and worry less with these things in mind.
Spend Time in Sunlight
Too many people spend the winter months indoors. This doesn't give you the sunlight and Vitamin D your mind and body need. Spend time in the sunlight and you'll feel your mood elevate and your stress decrease.
Say "No" to an Event
You may find yourself saying "yes" to all holiday events you're invited to. Say "no" to at least one so you have time for yourself that night. You won't have time to accomplish your to-do list if you have so many different things to attend. Go to an important family gathering for members you haven't seen since last year but skip your friend from work's party with the people you see every day. They'll understand.
Maintain Your Routine
Trying to add in so much more than what you're used to can be detrimental to your mental health. Maintain your routine as best as possible so you're feeling some sense of security. As long as you're still working your normal hours, sleeping at night, and getting in exercise, you're less likely to feel so stressed by the extras added during the holidays.
Don't Sweat the Small Stuff
You don't have to have the entire house decorated and the Christmas dinner perfect. Don't sweat the small stuff and you'll be more likely to enjoy the season. This time is more about time with the ones you love than it is about having the perfect home or meal. Some people don't get this time with family, so don't take it for granted.
Book a Restaurant
Some people don't enjoy having family over for the holidays because it ends up in arguments. Book a restaurant instead of hosting at your house so you're all out in public. This decreases some of the chances of outbursts since people tend to be a little better behaved when out. It also saves you from having to do all the cooking so you can relax and enjoy a little more.
The stress of the season can be minimized if you so choose. You don't have to go above and beyond for every holiday you come across. Find ways to limit your to-do list so can enjoy the season without all the stress it brings.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Cary, N.C.