How to Escape Holiday Stress

Is it all or nothing? Holiday stress, have you running for cover? Does your stress skyrocket as we get closer and closer to the holidays?

The wonderful season is upon us, and that means shopping, eating, socializing, gift wrapping, and spending extra time with family and friends.
While that all sounds wonderful, it does come with added stress.

Here’s how to escape that holiday stress and enjoy the very best the holidays have to offer…

Some people wait all year for the holidays, and many of us wish we had started preparing for them months ago – ha! Even though COVID is still here, that doesn’t mean we aren’t sticking to the traditional needs of the holidays but in a “safer” way.

There’s so much involved during the holiday season – shopping, cooking, preparing holiday cards, parties, kids’ concerts, recitals, and more. The to-do list gets bigger and bigger with each passing day.

So, how do you keep stress to a minimum?

Focus on Gratitude

With all the focus on gift-giving, meal preparation, decorating, and cleaning, it can be easy to forget the joy of the holiday season.

One of the best ways to not only keep stress at bay but to relax and enjoy is to consider the things you’re grateful for. It might even be a little quieter house this year!

Make a list of what you are thankful for, and watch your stress float away.

Go for a Drive

Take a few minutes by yourself and go for a drive.

Play your favorite tunes and drive around and look at holiday lights and décor.

If there’s snow on the ground, take a look at the beauty of the snow against the trees. Find a scenic stop, pullover and just relax.

Drink Tea

When it’s cold outside, there’s nothing quite like a cup of herbal or peppermint tea to soothe your mind.

We especially like peppermint tea because it tastes just like the holidays. It’s also a great way to start your day. It tastes refreshing and energizes you for the day ahead.

Take a Nap

Now, this could be a real nap, or it could be a code word for, “I just need a few minutes alone, please.”

If you have extra people home through New Year’s, or even if you don’t, you really need to take some time for yourself. Whether it’s a 15-minute cat nap or just a few minutes of solitude, it can really help reduce your holiday stress levels.

Video Chat with Loved Ones

Many of us are with family and friends this holiday season, but some may not be due to travel distance or Covid worries.

If Covid has shown us anything, it’s that we’re resilient, and we will find a way! If you are without friends and family during the holidays this year, make sure you schedule a few video chats. These can help you feel connected with your loved ones, relieving some of your stress and worries. Even though social connections are less during a pandemic, it’s still important to stay connected as best as you can.

Let Go of the Little Things

If your house a mess? Is dinner late? Don’t worry. These are little things.

Try to reduce your holiday stress by letting go of the little things. Once your holiday guests are gone, life will go back to normal, so try and enjoy your company in the present, and don’t worry about life’s little messes.

Soak in Your Hot Tub

There’s nothing quite like a hot tub soak all by yourself, enjoying the outdoors. Grab a bottle of water, your favorite playlist and a good book.

Soak and relax in your hot tub, and you’ll soon be feeling much better.

Ditching Holiday Stress

Give yourself the gift of some time alone. Whether it’s a quick walk around the neighborhood, a nice cup of hot tea with a good book, or a soak in your hot tub, be sure to take some time for yourself. This will reduce your stress and leave you feeling refreshed and energized for yet another day of holiday cooking!