5 Ways to Avoid Stress During the Holidays

Tis the season!! The holidays can be stressful, and I know this time of year can be difficult for many. The hustle and bustle, endless obligations and expectations can certainly take its toll. So, I wanted to share some ways to avoid stress during the holidays and tips for staying sane. After all, this is supposed to be the happiest time of the year, so we hopefully we can try to find some ways to enjoy it?!

1. Let go of perfection

It can be easy to get caught up wanting everything to be perfect this time of year… searching for the perfect gifts, wanting to host the perfect party, finding the perfect dress, etc. etc. Nobody can live up to those expectations, so let go of perfection and just enjoy the moment. The holidays are about enjoying time with loved ones, and when you’re too focused on trying to live up to unrealistic expectations, then you’ll end up being disappointed. Besides, in a few years from now you probably won’t remember what you wore or what gifts you gave, but you’ll cherish the memories you made!

2. Find time to work out

While I love my workouts, I’m not always in the mood to get my sweat on. However, I always feel so much better after each workout. That’s why I recommend making it a priority to move your body in some way, especially when you’re feeling stressed. Whether it’s a walk outside, a yoga class or some stretching, find time in your busy schedule to work out, even if it’s just 20 minutes. Trust me, your mind and your body will thank you! Plus, it’s so much harder to get back into a workout routine if you stop altogether! The past couple weeks have been super busy for me and I haven’t been working out as much as I usually do (which is okay!!) but I’ve been trying to go on some walks and make sure that when I do work out, I’m 100% there!

3. Take some time for yourself

While it is the season of giving, it’s important to make yourself a priority as well. Your mental health is way more important than any other plans you might have, and it’s okay to say ‘no’. Take some time for yourself to relax and unwind… whether that’s a bubble bath, some self-care at home, journaling, or simply watching your favorite show on Netflix, you’ll feel a lot better afterwards rather than stretching yourself too thin.

4. Stay hydrated

It can be easy to abandon healthy habits this time of year, especially if you’re dealing with stress. Dehydration can cause cravings and headaches, leaving you feeling even worse. So, try and stay hydrated - it’s an easy thing to do for your overall health. Even if you have to add some fruit to it, don’t forget that H2O - especially if you plan on drinking or going out with friends.

5. Respond with kindness

The last couple of years have been challenging to say the least. They’ve affected everyone in different ways, and we’re all doing the best we can. We aren’t going to agree with everyone, and everyone sees things their own way. At the end of the day, does it really matter if someone cut you off in the parking lot or offended you in some way? We never know what someone else is going through, so try (while I know it’s hard) to set aside your differences and respond with kindness.