With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, it’s time for my annual missive on coping with holiday stress. This year, instead of generalities and platitudes (of which I may have been guilty in the past), I would like to offer a list of 10 specific steps you can take to help you manage stress this holiday season. I’m grateful to the website Health.com for inspiration and guidance in building this list and, if you would like even more of these stress management tips, take a look at their slideshow, 25 Ways to Fight Holiday Stress.
Coping with Stress this Holiday Season
- Step outside – Since sunlight is a natural mood elevator, spending time outside in the light of day will help you cope with stress during this holiday season. Even sitting near a window on a sunny day is helpful.
- Take a citrus sniff – Certain citrus scents can boost your levels of norepinephrine, a naturally occurring hormone that affects your mood – in a good way. (Its’ the same hormone that causes “runner’s high”.)
- Just walk away – from stress. The repetition and rhythm of walking can have a natural tranquilizing effect. It will also help you sleep better. If you find yourself in a situation that is just “too much,” take a walk. We’ve all been there during the holidays, believe me, and no one will fault you for it. Plus, you’ll feel far better on your return.
- Sleep it off – Turn your bedroom into a refuge, where sleep is your priority. No TV. No radio. Leave nothing to distract your active mind.
- Squeeze it out – There is a spot between your thumb and index finger of each hand which, when squeezed for 30 seconds, will reduce stress in your upper body. This is a great, subtle, quick-fix for unavoidable stressful situations.
- Refuse something – Pick at least one invitation or activity to refuse, politely of course, to reduce your commitments and enjoy the invitations you do accept more fully.
- Stay consistent – One of the more stressful experience you can go through is a constantly changing schedule. Instead, keep your regular routine in place, and add only those things that are truly important to you over the holidays.
- Laugh it off – Plenty of research shows that laughter truly is the best medicine – for stress, anyway. Keep your sense of humor intact, and seek out humorous movies, TV shows, books, and anything else that might make you laugh.
- Stay away from “Uncle Stress” – Or “Aunt Stress”. You know what we mean, the family member that makes every get together a pain by attacking the rest of you. Either don’t accept the invitation, or don’t invite him or her. You’re not responsible for trying to “Save their holiday” for them.
- Nobody’s perfect – Including you. Stop trying to make the holidays perfect for everyone else, at your own expense. Being with friends and family should be enough, without the stress of creating “perfect moments.” Don’t try to be flawless – just be happy.
We know that stress can be a killer – just as we know that stress levels increase for virtually everyone during the holidays. The 10 tips should help you to cope more effectively this holiday season.
If you live in Toronto, and are having trouble coping with stress or the changing season, I am a stress management coach who can help you. Get in touch with me today.
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