The holidays are an exciting time, but can also be stressful and chaotic. Here are some tips to relieve some of that stress and focus on self-love during overwhelming moments.
1. Acknowledge your feelings. Realize that it's normal to feel sadness and grief from time to time. It's okay to take a time out - to cry, express your feelings, or just breathe. You can't force yourself to be happy just because it's the holiday season.
2. Reach out. If you feel lonely or isolated, try seeking out community - there are many websites, online support groups, social media sites or virtual events. They can offer support and companionship.
If you're feeling stress during this holiday season, it may help to talk to a friend or family member about your concerns. Try reaching out with a text, a call or a video chat.
Volunteering your time or doing something to help others also is a good way to lift your spirits and broaden your friendships.
3. Be realistic. The holidays don't have to be perfect or just like last year. As families change and grow, traditions and rituals often change as well. Choose a few to hold on to, and be open to creating new ones. Find new ways to celebrate together: share pictures, emails or videos, meet and play games virtually, or get creative with outdoor activities. Even though your holiday plans may look different this year, there are ways to celebrate no matter what.
4. Set aside differences. Try to accept family members and friends as they are. Set aside grievances and frustrations until a more appropriate time for discussion. Be understanding if others get upset or distressed - chances are they're feeling the effects of holiday stress, too.
5. Stick to a budget. Before you do your gift and food shopping, decide how much money you can afford or want to spend. Then stick to your budget. There are many ways to show love while saving money - try these alternatives:
o Donate to a charity in someone's name
o Give homemade gifts - so many ideas online
o Start a family gift exchange - everyone just buys one gift
6. Plan ahead. Set aside specific days for shopping, baking, connecting with family and friends and other activities. Can you shop online or plan your holiday menus? Be sure to also carve out some time for yourself to unwind.
7. Learn to say no. Saying “yes” when you should say “no” can leave you feeling frustrated and overwhelmed. Friends and colleagues will understand if you can't participate in every event or activity. If you can’t say “no” to your boss and you need work overtime, try to remove something else from your agenda to make up for the lost time.
8. Stick to healthy habits. Be easy on yourself, but try not to let the holidays become a free-for-all. Overindulgence can add to your stress and guilt. Here are some suggestions:
o Have a healthy snack before holiday meals so that you don't go overboard
o Get plenty of sleep.
o Physical activity – walks, shoveling, cleaning, yoga, etc.
o Try deep-breathing exercises, meditation or yoga.
o Avoid excessive tobacco, alcohol and drug use
o Adjust the time you spend reading news and social media – be present
9. Take a breather. Make some time for yourself and find an activity you enjoy. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may refresh you enough to handle everything you need to do. Some options may include:
o Taking a walk at night and stargazing
o Taking a bubble bath or hot shower
o Listening to soothing music
o Reading a book
10. Seek professional help if you need it. Despite your best efforts, you may find yourself feeling persistently sad or anxious. If these feelings last for a while, and don’t seem to get better, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress/art-20047544
