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Holiday Stress Busters
’Tis the season to nip stress in the bud with these helpful tips.
Holiday shopping, present wrapping, party planning and decorating are enough to make even the jolliest of us say “Bah humbug!” Fortunately, you can keep from turning into the Grinch this holiday season with these sanity-saving stress busters.
Work in a workout. Exercise helps soothe stress. If you don’t have time for the gym, power walk at the mall and make a mental note of the stores to hit when you’re done. Or bundle up the family and head outside for a snowball fight and some sledding.
Turn in early. It’s tempting to stay up late to wrap just one more gift or address a few more cards, but losing precious sleep isn’t worth it. Lack of rest increases grouchiness and tension.
Simplify gift giving. For a group of friends or family members, draw names for a gift exchange. You’ll need to buy only one gift, saving time and money. If hitting the stores causes stress, avoid the crowds by sending gift cards or ordering your presents online. Or skip the presents entirely and donate to a charity about which your loved one is passionate.
Step away from the goodies. Holiday stress can wreak havoc on your diet. Sweets will sap your energy and those empty calories will have you stressing about weight gain! Nosh on healthier options that provide energy, such as raw veggies, fruits and nuts.
Learn to say no. If you’re feeling overextended during the holidays, it’s time to start graciously excusing yourself from obligations. “It’s really okay to refuse invitations or say no when someone asks for your help, especially if the mere thought of the commitment makes you miserable,” says Simma Lieberman, an executive stress coach in Albany, Calif.
Delegate. Let the kids address envelopes and help with the cleaning and send your spouse to the grocery store. They might not do things exactly like you would, but let it go: The time they’ll free up for you is worth it.
Change your mind-set. “Stress often comes from wishing things were different. Instead of fuming over things you can’t control, make a mental list of the things you’re grateful for. Take deep, cleansing breaths, and soak up the festive surroundings,” says Jay Winner, M.D., author of Take the Stress Out of Your Life. Things won’t be perfect, but they’ll probably go well enough. Try to be flexible and keep your sense of humor.
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