Managing holiday stress doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right tools, you can navigate holiday traditions with friends and family with ease and grace. Whether you’re hosting or simply attending a gathering, be sure to keep these five tips in mind for a more enjoyable holiday experience!
Make a List…and Check It Twice.
Having a plan in place is helpful when gathering menu items, restocking the guest bathroom, and more. When the list is able to be visualized on paper, you’re less likely to become overwhelmed. Is there anything more satisfying than checking something off your to-do list?
Embrace the Imperfections!
While a plan is beneficial for preparation, don’t get too hung up on if your outline isn’t followed exactly. Embrace the imperfections and keep moving forward. After all, life isn’t perfect and it’s a little messy, but that’s what keeps it interesting!
Ask for Help
Don’t feel pressured to handle everything, especially if you’re hosting the festivities this year! Asking for help or assigning duties to others is a great way to manage holiday stress as well as offer others a way to feel included and helpful.
Keep Up with Healthy Habits
We’re definitely not ones to advise against indulging! The holidays are a time of abundance, gratitude, and togetherness. What brings people together more than delicious food? While we encourage enjoying the foods you love this holiday season, be sure to incorporate some of your healthy meals into the menu as well. Additionally, keep your body active through strolls around the neighborhood, swimming, or other low-impact workouts. Surely one of your friends or family members would love to join you in staying on track.
Remember the Why
Between preparing your home, food, and activities for all, the holidays can induce stress. In these moments, it’s important to take a step back and remember the why. The holidays are a time for you and your loved ones to gather and celebrate. Time together is precious and deserves to be savored. However, when you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a moment for yourself. Enjoy a relaxing activity, a warm bath, or simply check in internally.
The holidays are a joyful and magical time, but that doesn’t mean that stressors disappear. Have these tips in your toolbox to combat difficult times, so you can get back to celebrating the season and a wonderful year ahead.
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