Christmas Stress: Solutions for Prevention
By Brandi Goodman
The Christmas season and end to the year can bring on stress for many people. Your to-do list may be miles long with time dwindling down to get it all checked off. With a few solutions for prevention you can minimize your Christmas stress and experience a more joyful holiday.
Stick to Your Routine
Deviating far from your routine can throw off your mental well-being. When your life is feeling busy and hectic, sometimes the same old routine is just what you need to help get it back on track. Make sure you're still making dinner, getting in your exercise, enjoying your time with your family, and keeping the same bedtime. You can add in the extra tasks you need easily by having the whole family tackling things together during your normal family time. Maybe you normally visit with friends every Friday. You still can. Just have one or more accompany you to finish your holiday shopping or have them come over to help with some decorating.
Make Time for Yourself
You need time to yourself to unwind, especially after a particularly stressful week. Be sure to add this time into your schedule so you can be sure you're getting it when needed. Visit the chiropractor for an adjustment. Soak in a bubble bath. Read a book. De-stress by doing things you enjoy that help to improve your mood.
Keep Your To-Do List Small
Many people try to take on too much during the holidays. You may find yourself with a long to-do list that you couldn't possibly have time to accomplish. You don't need to knit everyone on your list a scarf, decorate the inside and outside of your house, purchase all the ingredients for a five-course meal to cook, and still maintain your routine. Keep your to-do list small. Purchase gift cards for a department store so everyone can pick out their own gift. Skip making a meal this year and attend someone else's holiday party instead. Enlist help with your holiday decorating and just keep it to a minimum. There's plenty of ways you can reduce your list so you don't put added stress on your shoulders.
End your year right with a festive holiday season that's stress-free. You can cut your to-do list down and focus on your time with family to help make the most of this time of year. Life is already stressful enough. Enjoy your holidays without so much worry.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in American Fork, Utah.