Simple Ways to Combat Holiday Stress

The holidays are promoted as a time to be happy.. but that’s sometimes easier said than done.

While the holiday can and does bring us joy.. they can also create an unmentionable amount of stress. Family reunions usually result in awkward feelings, arguments, old family conflicts (at least here they do!). .. while the holidays requires lots of preparation, shopping, gift giving and – the worst of it? Lots of money.

Because nothing happens when you don’t “have it” – right?

All those new toys and gadgets may bring some pleasure (usually short lived..), but your true happiness won’t emerge until you feel good inside.

To enjoy the holidays you have to be in a healthy state of mind – and that in itself can be a true challenge. It’s challenging for many – after all, every time we open up Facebook we are affected by outside influences – in fact, just today I saw a friend comment on Facebook that after today, she is turning off Facebook until January to keep herself sane over this holiday season.

That made me stop this morning and think to myself “well.. it’s not just me then who feels like that. Others must too  

So how do you handle stress at the holidays? The weeks leading up to the holiday? The Black Friday mess?  Just refocus.

Be intentional – truly enjoy the holiday.

Make a new vow this year to a different type of well being and happiness – you won’t miss out on any moments and you will discover a new sense of self.

Prime your brain to be open and ready for a NEW set of experiences – instead of focusing in gifts and lavish decor, work on capturing more time with family to make new experiences – which will give you greater pleasure much longer than the next best toy or gadget.

Take an occasional break.

Slow down a little – or, a lot more than you would normally. Feeling overwhelmed is not healthy for your brain, your mind or your body – it weakens your immunity and only creates problems with time.

Make a commitment to take an exercise class, go on a nightly walk with the family or schedule more family opportunities and work a little less. When our mind wanders into all the things we have to do, we run the risk of feeling overwhelmed, and that in itself leads to unhappiness.

Be thankful.

Every day we find ourselves taking some of the most common things for granted – and while we are constantly reminded of why we should avoid doing that, we need to continuously reflect in our life blessings every day.

Express your appreciation for friends and family often – through actions and words. Keep a gratitude journal and write in it each morning. Encourage your kids to do the same every morning as they leave for school or when they return home before dinner.

Be generous.

When you practice generosity you affect the pleasure centers in your brain – those feelings expand in your body and mind. You don’t have to spend large amounts either – make small gifts, put together some DIY’s for your friends, share some baked goods with a neighbor.. or do something that contributes to the well being of another person.

Enjoy yourself {and your kids!}

Although we aren’t quite kids, we can share in happy and delightful activities with them. Being around kids is an easy way to enjoy yourself – get out with them and play … at the splash pad, at the community park.. or even at home – that happy fun can be important for their physical and emotional development.

Remember that the holidays don’t have to be a stressful time – choosing to lighten your load and refocus on what’s important can be contagious – if you are happy, then friends and family close to you will be happy too.

The more you stay connected to your happiness the more you will help others find ways to do the same.