Our stress busting tool kit was a big hit last year, so we’ve decided to share it again – the start of a holiday tradition?
No matter what holiday you celebrate, ‘tis the beginning of the season of stress.
Festivities often bring along depression, anxiety and stress as uninvited guests. It’s up to you to avoid letting these unwelcome party crashers ruin your time with family and friends. Easier said than done? You bet. There are ways, however, to keep stress at a minimum during the holidays.
Here’s a tool kit of ideas and suggestions to help you build the kind of holiday season you’ll remember as one of the best
The Hammer
- Sit down with your family and hammer out the kind of holiday you’d enjoy the most, given the time, interests and budget you have. Incorporate one idea from each person and consider replacing stressful traditions with new ones. This is the “If no one eats Brussels sprouts, stop serving Brussels sprouts” approach. Be frank about what causes stress this time of year and brainstorm ways to eliminate it.
- Break up preconceived notions of obligations and commitments. Will the world come to an end if you pass on this year’s office gift exchange? Or decide not to go to your second cousin’s concert recital? The answer is no. It’s okay to refuse invitations. Simply say you’re cutting back on activities this year – no other explanation required.
The Saw
- Cut out (off) anything that adds stress. This might include running around to multiple gatherings, making sure your house and decorations are perfect enough to be a candidate for a home décor magazine and buying gifts for everybody and anybody.
- Remember: Less is more. In the big scheme of things, the important part of holiday gatherings is to spend time with people you care about, not to wear the fanciest clothes, buy the biggest presents or throw the most expensive party. Simple activities with family and friends are more relaxing, memorable and better for you. Take a walk, enjoy the outdoors or build a snowman to keep stress levels down and enjoyment high.
The Screwdriver
- Be aware of unhealthy habits. Enjoy yourself, but don’t overdo the screwdrivers or other drinks of choice. The relief you feel from counting on alcohol, drugs, overeating or other excess indulgences to release stress is always short lived. Feeling hung over (emotionally or physically) the next day just isn’t worth it.
- When you feel tightly wound, practice one of our pocket stress busters: talk to someone who understands or take a five minute break to decompress.
The Tape Measure
- Don’t judge your plans for the holidays by how others celebrate. Comparing your lifestyle, possessions or appearance of affluence means you’ll never feel as if you measure up – there’s always someone with more money, influence and toys. Take a good look at your bank balance and figure out how much you can, or can’t, afford. The interest rates for carrying a credit card balance are a good reality check on the dangers of overspending this time of year. Make a financial plan and stick to it. You’ll be glad you did when January rolls around. And any bets those who give the appearance of living in luxury might just be living on credit?
- Take stock of low cost activities offered in your community. Free or food bank donation gatherings usually offer low stress opportunities for you to get back to basics and share a sense of community, spirituality and togetherness. Isn’t that what the holidays are all about?
The Goggles
- Remember, not everyone views the holidays the same way you do. Respect the customs of others and try to see their point of view. You don’t have to agree with their traditions, just recognize their right to worship, celebrate and enjoy their beliefs.
- Look around you and see who you can help this year. Is there a colleague or friend you could invite to dinner or spend some time with this season? Can you volunteer somewhere? Be grateful for what you have and pass on your good fortune to those who struggle.
For other great tips on coping with seasonal stress and anxiety, check out the Mayo Clinic’s Stress, depression and the holidays: Tips for coping – MayoClinic.com
Pocket Stress Busters
Practice any of these suggestions to short circuit stress:
- Take ten deep, slow breaths, silently saying: Breathe in patience, breathe out stress. Visualize the stress leaving your body in large clouds
- Wear an elastic band on your wrist as a reminder not to get too tightly wound. Ping it whenever you find yourself reacting to situations beyond your control
- Choose a mantra and repeat it: This too, shall pass is a favourite. Or try Life is good.
- Picture what matters most to you: your family, kids, spouse or partner and project yourself into a happy memory
- Change the mood: Turn off the complaint channel and tune into positive vibes. Be upbeat for the next ten minutes.