5 Ways to Survive the Holidays

So It Can Be Relaxing and Enjoyable

The holiday season brings a feeling of overwhelm for many. As we gear up for the season, there are so many things to plan, organize, and prepare for.  

We multitask (beyond what we’ve already been multitasking) to fit in things like buying and wrapping gifts, baking cookies, attending office parties, showing up for kids Christmas concert, putting up Christmas decorations, volunteering for a toy drive, attending a church service, hosting and entertaining, and cooking up a storm.

Although these festivities are wonderful, they still add stress and more onto the mental load that we’re already carrying. It’s a lot.  

Think about how out of the ordinary it is to have so many activities within a one-month period.

For some of us, it feels like we’re going through the motions, but lose sight of why we are doing this in the first place. When the pressure mounts to keep up with certain traditions or attend every event, it takes a toll on our mental health and well-being.  

So, it is important for us to pause and make space for ourselves during this month. Here are some tips to help make our holiday season more meaningful and less stressful.

1. Be present instead of buying presents.

Why do you celebrate the holiday season? For some, it is about being together with loved ones and remembering how much we appreciate them. For others, it is about observing a religious tradition and recalling what the season represents. Yet for others, it is a time to relax and celebrate. Whatever your reason is, pause to remember why you’re doing this in the first place. Be in the moment, think about the people you are with, feel the presence of the precious moment, and be grateful for the activity at hand.

2. Take a time out, so the holiday doesn’t take you out.

Your mind and body need to recharge like a battery. It cannot keep running on empty. Take a time out for self-care and do things that are not holiday related, to feel a sense of routine and rhythm in your day. By relaxing and having down time, you will have more energy to give during this busy season.

3. Plan ahead, to get ahead.