10 Simple Ways to Reduce Holiday Stress

Article posted in: Lifestyle

Gift shopping: check. Decorating, cooking, cleaning: triple check. Picking up relatives from the airport: wait, what time are they getting here?!

If this sounds anything like your holiday checklist, you might be feeling more frantic than festive! Making too many plans and rushing around can leave you feeling tired and irritable – exactly what you want to avoid during one of the most exciting times of the year.

To keep up the holiday cheer, make time for small doses of relaxation and self-care to help create a more stress-free holiday season. Use these 10 tips for managing stress during the holidays so you can enjoy every moment of the celebrations.

1. Recharge with a Power Nap

Feeling overwhelmed? Take a break from all the excitement with a quick snooze. SleepFoundation.org highlights that midday naps can boost alertness, improve mood, enhance memory, and alleviate stress. Try to take a 20 to 30-minute nap before 3 p.m., or at least eight hours before your bedtime, to ensure it doesn’t disrupt your sleep schedule.

2. Relax with a Soothing Cup of Tea

Various studies have shown that drinking tea, specifically black and green teas, may reduce your stress levels. They contain theanine, an amino acid that may lessen anxiety and encourage you to feel calm.

Plan a daily “tea time” when you sit down for a break, brew a cup and unwind. For a little holiday flair, try peppermint or spiced chai.

3. Embrace Nature with Fresh Air Breaks

Getting outside and connecting with nature may help decrease your levels of the stress hormone cortisol and lower your heart rate. Make this part of your everyday schedule by planning a short walk in the mornings, during your lunch breaks or after dinner to feel rejuvenated.

Bonus: it’s an easy way to get moving without breaking a sweat!

4. Simplify Your Schedule

Overbooked? The holidays are full of obligations and invites, but it’s OK to say no. If you’re feeling overcommitted, review your potential plans for the month and consider skipping one event to create space for relaxation and personal time.

Freeing up time for yourself can be a lifesaver during the holidays. Giving yourself the time to make your own plans or just staying at home and relaxing are helpful ways to cope with holiday stress.

5. Reduce Holiday Stress with Self-Care

The holidays might be a season of giving, but that doesn’t mean you should give up your time for self-care. Take 10 minutes today to do something for you.

There are lots of different ways to practice self-care. Try choosing something that you enjoy and helps you to relax. Perhaps it’s as simple as reading a book, meditating, taking a walk, or savoring some peace and quiet. These small acts can have a big impact on your stress levels.

6. Laugh It Out

Laughter might be the best medicine during the holidays! Letting loose and laughing could help you to de-stress and may even keep your heart healthy.

Infuse a little humor into the festivities! Host a game night, play a fun game with your kids, watch a holiday comedy, or get tickets to a stand-up comedy show.

7. Unplug from Social Media

Ever feel left out after seeing photos of your friends having a great time during the holidays? Social media envy is a real thing and can amplify holiday FOMO (fear of missing out).

Consider taking a break from the internet to reset. One study found that active social media users who took a five-day break from Facebook had lower levels of cortisol in their bodies.

If you find yourself spending too much time on social media, sign off or disable your notifications, whether it’s for a couple of hours or a few days. Use the time to connect with loved ones offline.

8. Get into the Spirit with Holiday Music

It’s more than just an enjoyable pastime … listening to your favorite tunes is an instant mood booster and can reduce stress levels. It’s the perfect way to relax and get into the holiday spirit.

If you start to feel anxiety creeping up, take a break and put on your favorite songs. Create a festive playlist and let it accompany you while cooking, driving or simply unwinding by the fire!

9. Move Your Body to Feel Good

Did you know you can unwind and improve your mood by being active? Physical activity encourages your brain to release endorphins, natural chemicals that may help you feel happier.

One study found that most people noticed a mood boost after exercising for 10 minutes or less. So go ahead, lace up those sneakers for a brisk walk or fitness class. Get your groove on at a dance studio or bust out an impromptu dance party with your kids. Have fun with it!

10. Start a New Holiday Tradition

‘Tis the season to make memories. If old traditions feel overwhelming or no longer align with your goals, start fresh!

Craft decorations with your family, bake healthier treats or sign up for a local 5K, such as an ugly sweater run or Santa walk. Creating new memories can help you feel more connected and fulfilled.

Your Holiday Stress-Free Plan

The holidays are a special time to spend with family and friends, especially if you only see them once each year. If you feel overwhelmed by plans and preparation, coping with holiday stress can be as simple as scheduling time for yourself each day. Even if you have only 10 minutes to spare, try these tips to get one step closer to a stress-free holiday season!

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