The holidays, while filled with gratitude, joy, and family gatherings, can also be one of the most stressful times of the year for many.
From juggling busy schedules to managing expenses and activating your body, we’ve rounded up our top 5 tips for managing your stress over the next few weeks to fully enjoy the holiday season.
The holiday season is often a time of joy, family, and giving. But let’s be honest, it can also be stressful for many people.
With endless shopping lists, busy schedules, and rising costs, it’s no surprise the season can feel more stressful than joyful. According to WorldMetrics.org, around 64% of people report increased stress during the holiday season.
But here’s the good news: holiday stress doesn’t have to steal your cheer. With the right stress management approach, you can take control, breathe easier, and enjoy the festivities. All you need is the right strategy. Here are our top 5 tips for managing holiday stress to help you make this season one to remember for all the right reasons.
Set Realistic Expectations
It is easy to get caught up in the idea of a “perfect holiday.” You may feel pressured to buy the best gifts, host great parties, and make sure your family has a wonderful time. But here’s a reality check: nothing is perfect.
Striving for an ideal holiday that only exists in movies (or on Instagram) will pile on unnecessary stress. Instead, take a moment to redefine what a “perfect holiday” means to you. Simplicity can be just as magical. Maybe it’s cozy pajamas, hot cocoa, and a low-key evening with loved ones—no glittering tablescapes required.
On top of that, it’s okay to say “no.” Will hosting that Christmas Eve dinner overwhelm you? Are you having to bounce around to multiple family members’ homes for gatherings?
Communicate openly with your loved ones about what you can and can’t manage. The people who care about you will value your honesty. You will also enjoy having space to truly enjoy the season.
Be Mindful of Your Finances
As we all know, the holidays are expensive. Everything from shopping for gifts to buying ingredients for big meals can really stress your wallet.
You’re not alone. In fact, 58% of U.S. adults say spending too much or not having enough money causes them stress during this time. Setting a budget can reduce stress and keep your mental health in check during this busy time of year.
You can also consider alternatives to traditional gift-giving:
- A DIY project: A handmade gift adds a personal touch to the holidays and will mean even more to the person receiving it.
- Experience-based gifts: Plan a fun day with your loved one. You could take a trip to a nearby city to explore holiday markets. Or, try a cooking class together. These core memories will last longer than a physical gift ever could.
- Host a family gift swap: Instead of making everyone buy gifts for each other, a gift swap is a great option. It gives each person the opportunity to put more thought into what they are giving!
Prioritize Self-Care
In stressful times, it’s important not to neglect healthy habits. Over the next few months, make sure to do the following:
Stay physically active: Moving your body releases endorphins, helping reduce stress and improve your mental health. Try incorporating some form of exercise into your daily routine, even if it’s just a 10-minute walk or some stretching.
Get enough sleep: Sleep allows your body to reset and prepare for the day. Aim to get 7-9 hours of sleep each night to ensure you feel refreshed each morning. Create a calming bedtime routine at least one hour before you sleep. This will help you get ready for a good night’s rest.
Activate your body: LifeVantage offers an array of products to support everyday stress relief at any time of the year. Including them in your daily routine is even more important during the holiday season! We suggest the following:
- AXIO® & Protandim® Nrf2 Synergizer® —Both include adaptogens, which help your brain and body manage everyday stress, and make what your body needs for overall well-being.*
- Fat Burn & MindBody GLP-1 System™—These products can help you stay mindful and on track with your weight and wellness goals, conquering cravings and taking away stress related to food during the season of many indulgences.*‡
- D3+—This product increases healthy vitamin D levels and supports a healthy mood, especially during a season with less sunlight.*
Sip Smartly
It’s easy to overindulge in holiday cheer, but too much alcohol can leave you feeling worse for wear. Drinking too much can drain your energy, disrupt your sleep, and strain your relationships. This adds stress to an already busy season.
Stick to one or two drinks at your holiday parties, alternate with water, and savor the moment rather than the refill. You’ll stay sharp and wake up ready to tackle the next day’s festivities with a clear head.
Practice Mindfulness and Gratitude
Mindfulness practices can help you stay present and cut down on stress. Simple routines like deep breathing, meditation, or walking can help you stay mindful during busy times. We suggest practicing gratitude by thinking about what you are thankful for each day. You can do this during meditation or by writing in a journal.
The holidays are what you make of them. Follow these tips for managing stress during the holidays to help you enjoy the season. Instead of feeling stressed, you can embrace the love and joy that come with it. Small changes like these can make all the difference.
