Isn’t this time of year supposed to be fun and relaxing? Instead, for many of us, it’s very hectic. On top of what’s going on in our work lives, we also have decorations to put up, holiday cards to send, presents to wrap, and cookies to bake.
Here’s a list of tips to make this time of year more enjoyable and less stressful.
1. Create a “to-do” list.
Write this list on paper or put the info in your smartphone. Then, prioritize it. By making a list, you can clear your mind and focus on things that need to be done now. Crossing things off a list can also create a sense of accomplishment.
2. Choose your holiday events wisely.
If you have kids, the annual holiday concert is a must. Everything after that should be chosen carefully. It’s impossible to attend every event, so select the ones that will be the most meaningful and enjoyable for you and your family.
3. Exercise.
For many of us, cutting out exercise during this busy time of year seems like an obvious way to free up some time. On the contrary, exercise is the last thing you should eliminate from your daily routine. Exercise produces endorphins, which can help you relax and cope during this time of year.
4. Breathe.
Do you ever pay attention to how you breathe? Many are shallow breathers, so we don’t wholly inhale or exhale. Deep breathing is beneficial because it sends a message to our brain telling it to “chill out.” Deep breathing can help reduce your heart rate and blood pressure when stressed.
5. Rally the troops.
Ask your family or friends for help. It’s not possible to do everything yourself. I’ve been responsible for putting down the Christmas tree for several years.
6. Budget for holiday spending.
My bank has a holiday program that withdraws a specified amount of money out of our paychecks. The caveat is that we can only withdraw the money when the holiday season arrives. This helps eliminate some of the financial worries of the holiday season.
7. Make time for yourself.
Don’t eliminate things from your life that help you relax or that you enjoy. If you like to read a good book by the fire with a glass of wine, read it. If you like to play pickleball or basketball with your friends, play. If you’d like to get a massage, do it. Don’t forget about your well-being during this busy time of year.
8. Turn off your Smartphone.
How can you enjoy a holiday party or dinner with friends if you constantly look at text and email messages? Enjoy the people you’re with. The messages will be there later.
9. Look for new traditions.
If you’ve experienced a significant change in your life, such as the loss of a family member or pet, look at creating new traditions instead of dwelling on those of the past. Old traditions make lovely memories, but so do new ones.
10. Get plenty of sleep.
Like exercise, now is not the time to skimp on sleep. A lack of sleep and increased stress can lead to illness. If you have trouble falling asleep, try listening to soothing music or background noise. I have an app on my iPhone called “White Noise.” This app has a variety of soothing sounds, like waves crashing on the beach. You can even create your own sound list.
Do you have any suggestions or information you’d like to share? I’d love to hear from you. Please share them in the box below.
