Overcoming Holiday Stress

10 Tips to help Overcome Holiday Stress

Don’t let stress and worry hurt your health this holiday season. While ‘tis the season to be merry, for many of us, it’s also ‘tis the season for stress, anxiety and angst. During this time of year, people often resort to bad habits—this may come in the form of overspending, eating poorly, drinking too much or even lack of sleep.
To help you have a happy season, here are 10 tips to relieve holiday stress.

1. Be realistic. The holidays don't have to be perfect or just like last year. You don’t have to be everywhere or break the bank. In addition, as families change and grow, traditions and rituals often change as well. Choose what to hold on to, and be open to new ideas.
2. Stick to a budget. This can be a big area of frustration. Before you go gift and food shopping, decide how much money you can afford – or want to spend. Then stick to your budget. Don't try to buy happiness with gifts.
3. Learn to say no. We don’t have to be all and do all. Saying yes when you should say no can leave you feeling resentful and overwhelmed. Friends and colleagues will understand if you can't participate in every project or activity.
4. Get moving. Keep or set regular time to exercise. Research shows that physical activity not only boosts your fitness and energy levels but can also elevate your moods. In addition, exercise has been found to reduce anger, tension, fatigue and confusion. Despite the many demands on your time, this is not the season to stop exercising.
5. Keep healthy habits. Don't let the holidays become a free-for-all. Overindulgence only adds to your stress and guilt.
6. Take a breather. Make some time for yourself. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may refresh you enough to handle everything you need to do. Find something that reduces stress by clearing your mind, slowing your breathing and restoring inner calm like talking a walk, reading a book, or an extra-long shower.
7. Plan ahead. Set aside specific days for shopping, parties, visiting friends and other activities. Plan your menus and then make your shopping list. This will help you feel more in control of your schedule and give you time you need for your family or yourself.
8. Reach out. If you feel lonely or isolated, seek out community, religious or other social events. They can offer support and companionship. Also, check in to volunteering your time to help others. It’s a good way to lift your spirits and broaden your friendships.
9. Be generous. One of the best ways to stay calm, content and cheerful this time of year is to act generously with your loved ones, co-workers and friends. This doesn’t mean spending money either. You can be generous with your compliments, smiles, hugs and time. You can generously offer to do a loved one’s dreaded errand, offer a hug to a friend in need or help your friends and family wrap presents.  
10. Seek professional help if you need it. Despite your best efforts, you may find yourself feeling persistently sad or anxious, plagued by physical complaints. If you are unable to sleep, irritable and hopeless, or unable to face routine chores that lasts longer than you think is okay, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional.
    

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