Top Tips for Less Stress this Holiday Season
The holiday season, while filled with joy and celebration, can often become a source of significant stress. Between planning gatherings, finding the perfect gifts, and juggling family obligations, it’s no surprise that many of us feel overwhelmed. However, with intentional strategies and a focus on both physical and emotional well-being, it is possible to navigate the holidays with grace and enjoyment. Below are some of the best ways to beat stress during this festive yet demanding time of year.
Set Realistic Expectations
One of the leading causes of holiday stress is the pressure to create a “perfect” experience. It’s essential to recognize that perfection is an illusion. For example, my cousin, a surgeon with three young children, has decided to send Christmas cards only every other year. By setting a more achievable expectation, she’s able to focus on what truly matters: connection and meaning. If something doesn’t go as planned—whether it’s a burnt pie or a late delivery—allow yourself to laugh it off. Focus on the moments that bring joy rather than striving for an unattainable ideal.
Prioritize Self-Care
The holidays can quickly lead to burnout if you neglect your own needs. Self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate; even small actions can make a big difference. Here are a few ideas:
- Dedicate 15 minutes a day to activities that help you unwind, such as reading, meditating, or enjoying a warm bath.
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, aiming for 7-9 hours of quality rest each night.
- Stay hydrated and nourish your body with balanced meals, even amidst indulgent holiday treats.
By keeping your physical and mental health in check, you’ll be better equipped to handle the demands of the season.
Plan Ahead
A little organization goes a long way in reducing holiday stress. Start by creating a checklist of tasks, from shopping to decorating, and assign realistic deadlines for each. If possible, spread responsibilities over several weeks to avoid last-minute panic. Additionally, set a budget for gifts, travel, and other expenses to prevent financial stress—and stick to it. This approach allows you to enjoy the holidays without the looming worry of overspending or forgotten tasks. I tend to start my planning October 1st so that I can start getting ahead of the holiday bustle of crowds. I feel so much less stressed when I start holiday cards before Thanksgiving and start getting gift lists together.
Learn to Say No
It’s easy to feel obligated to attend every party, participate in every gift exchange, or take on extra responsibilities. However, overcommitting can lead to exhaustion and resentment. Learning to say no is probably the most profound thing I’ve learned to do for my mental health as an adult. It’s not easy, but by doing so you create trust within yourself by politely declining invitations or requests that don’t align with your priorities or capacity. Remember, it’s perfectly okay to protect your time and energy because your well-being is important if you want to spread holiday cheer.
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness can be a powerful antidote to holiday stress. By staying present in the moment, you can reduce feelings of overwhelm and fully appreciate the season’s joys. Here’s how to incorporate mindfulness into your routine:
- Engage your senses: Take a moment to notice the sights, sounds, and smells of the season, whether it’s twinkling lights or the aroma of freshly baked cookies.
- Practice gratitude: Reflect on what you’re thankful for, and consider keeping a journal to capture these moments.
- Breathe deeply: When stress starts to build, pause and take a few slow, deep breaths to calm your mind and body.
Delegate and Ask for Help
You don’t have to do everything alone. Enlist family members to help with meal preparation, decorating, or wrapping gifts. Children can participate in age-appropriate tasks, turning chores into an opportunity for bonding. If hosting a gathering, consider making it a potluck to ease the burden of preparing an entire meal yourself. Potlucks are my favorite way to manage the stress of hosting. Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a way to share the joy and responsibility. It took me a long time to see it this way but having embraced asking for help I can say it’s a lovely way to create deeper bonds and ease holiday stress.
Embrace Simplicity
Sometimes, less truly is more. Simplify your holiday traditions to focus on what matters most. Instead of a lavish multi-course dinner, opt for a cozy, simple meal that allows you to spend more time enjoying your guests’ company. Replace expensive, time-consuming gifts with heartfelt gestures, such as handwritten notes or homemade treats. Simplifying can bring a sense of relief and help you reconnect with the true spirit of the season. Materialism has taken over much of the holiday traditions in the U.S. but more and more people are finding that the heartfelt, personal gifts someone makes or creates from the heart to be much more meaningful.
Stay Active
Physical activity is a proven stress reliever, and it’s especially important during the holidays. Incorporate movement into your daily routine—even a brisk walk around the block can boost your mood and energy. Consider making it festive by joining a holiday-themed fitness class or organizing a family game of touch football. Exercise not only helps manage stress but also keeps you feeling energized amidst the seasonal hustle.
Connect with Others
The holidays can be especially challenging for those who feel isolated. Reach out to friends, family, or community groups to strengthen your sense of connection. Virtual gatherings, phone calls, or even sending a thoughtful message can make a meaningful difference. If you have the capacity, consider volunteering—helping others is a wonderful way to shift your focus and lift your spirits.
Reflect and Reset
As the year comes to a close, take time to reflect on what the holidays mean to you. Are there traditions that no longer serve you or your family? Are there new rituals you’d like to introduce? By aligning your celebrations with your values, you can create a holiday experience that feels authentic and fulfilling. For example, a couple years ago I started making it a habit to go see a local musician play Christmas tunes and each year this brings me so much joy. I've made it a Christmas tradition and it leaves me feeling happy and relaxed amid all the holiday stress.
The holidays are meant to be a time of joy, love, and togetherness. By setting boundaries, embracing simplicity, and prioritizing your well-being, you can reduce stress and truly savor the season. Remember, it’s not about perfection—it’s about presence.