Tis the Season: Tips for a Calm Holiday Experience

Do you find yourself expressing the same sentiments about the holiday season each year? Does the transition from summer to the festive season bring about feelings of stress and overwhelm? While this time of year is meant for celebrating with loved ones, enjoying delicious food, and exchanging gifts, it often becomes one of the most stressful periods for many. To add to the challenge, we now face the complexities of wars and the numerous losses over the last 3 years, turning what should be a joyous occasion into a source of anxiety for some.

This year, many continue to grapple with the pressures of the season. Some are navigating grief related to global issues, introducing additional stressors and uncertainties. Others are wrestling with the dilemma of whether it is safe to travel to be with their families, while some are anxious about the dynamics within their family circles.
Although there are countless statistics available online regarding stress and depression during the holiday season, it may be more enlightening to poll your friends and family about their stress levels. You might be surprised by the number who experience stress for various reasons, realizing that you are not alone. Connecting with others may also provide valuable coping tips.

Common stressors during the holiday season include family trauma, financial constraints, concerns about overeating, perfectionism, struggles with setting boundaries, mourning the loss of a loved one, comparison with others, travel-related anxieties, the pressure of entertaining guests, and the burden of feeling obligated.

Regardless of what is dampening the holiday spirit for you, it’s possible to cultivate peace of mind. Identifying the root cause of your holiday challenges is a crucial first step. Reflect on questions such as when these challenges began, your age at the time, significant events that occurred, your emotional response, and what your holidays would look like without this problem.

In addition to reflection, practicing calmness is essential. Consider the following tips to create peace and maintain calm during the holiday season:
 Prioritize Rest: Establish a scheduled sleep time and adhere to it consistently.
 Plan Ahead: Create a daily schedule, allowing for the unexpected, and include designated downtime.
 Healthy Eating: Incorporate serotonin-producing foods into your meals for mood balance.
 Financial Boundaries: Set a budget for holiday spending and adhere to it to avoid financial regrets.
 Gratitude Practice: Acknowledge and appreciate small things by starting a gratitude journal to shift your perspective.
 Connect with Nature: Spend time outdoors in the sun and fresh air to rejuvenate your spirit.
 Stay Active: Incorporate movement into your day through exercise to boost your mood.
 Meditation: Set aside time to still your mind and listen to your thoughts, promoting mental clarity.

If you find that these tips don’t alleviate your holiday blues, consider seeking professional help. Take charge of your well-being and create a peaceful and joyous holiday season!