How to Enjoy the Holiday Season Without the Overwhelm
Reader’s Question:
Hello, I’d love to get ahead of the holiday season and actually enjoy this time of year. However, no matter how much I try to relax and have fun with my family and friends, I can’t seem to quiet my racing mind and often feel overwhelmed by all the expectations, deadlines, and endless to-do lists. Can you help me figure this out?
Response:
You’re definitely not alone in feeling this way. The holiday season can be a time of joy, but it also brings a unique set of pressures—expectations, deadlines, and an endless list of things to do. It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind and lose sight of what you truly want to experience. But there are some simple, grounding strategies that can help you navigate the season with more peace and joy.
Mindfulness
First, take a moment each day to focus on your breath. Mindful breathing is a powerful tool to calm the mind. When you feel yourself becoming overwhelmed, pause, and inhale deeply for four counts, hold for four, and exhale for six. This simple practice helps center your thoughts and brings you back to the present moment, helping you feel more grounded.
It can also be helpful to set clear intentions each day. Before diving into your holiday preparations, try something like, “I will enjoy this process,” or “I choose peace today.” Setting an intention gives your mind a guiding focus, steering you away from stress and toward calm.
Gratitude
One of the best ways to shift your mindset during the holidays is to cultivate gratitude. You can start or end your day by reflecting on three things you’re grateful for. They don’t have to be big; even the small moments—a warm cup of tea, a smile from a loved one—can create a shift in perspective. Gratitude helps you move from a place of pressure and chaos to one of appreciation and joy.
Self-Care
Amid the busyness, it’s also essential to prioritize self-care. I know it can be tough to find time for yourself during the holidays, but even taking 10 minutes for something that soothes you—whether it’s reading, taking a bath, or going for a short walk—can reset your energy and allow you to approach your day with a more relaxed mindset.
Grounding
Another helpful tool is grounding exercises. If you’re feeling rushed or anxious, pause and notice the physical sensations around you. Feel your feet on the floor, stretch your body, or take a deep breath. These moments can quickly pull you away from racing thoughts and into the present moment.
It’s easy to get lost in the to-do list, but simplifying things can help. Rather than trying to juggle everything at once, break down tasks into smaller, manageable pieces. Focus on one thing at a time, and don’t feel pressured to multitask. This approach helps reduce overwhelm and gives you a sense of control.
Connecting with nature is another simple yet effective way to reset your mind. Even if you can only step outside for a few minutes, nature has a calming effect. Whether you’re noticing the sounds, sights, or smells around you, taking in the world in a mindful way can help ease tension.
If anxiety creeps in, try the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique. It’s a quick exercise that can help you feel more centered. Look around you and notice five things you can see, four things you can feel, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. This practice shifts your focus away from stress and into the present.
Saying “No” is Ok
As much as the holidays come with invitations and responsibilities, it’s important to recognize when you need to say no. It can be hard, but setting boundaries is essential for your well-being. Saying no, without guilt, is a powerful act of self-care that prevents overwhelm.
Another thing to remember is that perfection is an illusion. The holidays are about connection, not flawless execution. Let go of the pressure to make everything perfect. Instead, focus on enjoying the moments, embracing the joy of being together, and leaving room for flexibility and fun.
Presence Rather than Presents
Finally, shift your mindset from focusing on presents to focusing on presence. The relationships and experiences we share during the holidays are far more meaningful than any gift. When you focus on being truly present with those around you, the stress melts away, and joy naturally follows.
If you find that stress is creeping in, set aside a few minutes each day for a short meditation. It could be as simple as sitting quietly and focusing on your breath, or repeating a calming phrase like “I am calm” or “I am here.” Meditation is a great way to cultivate peace and clarity, even in the busiest of times.
Cutting back on stimulants like caffeine and sugar can also help. While they might provide a temporary energy boost, they can also heighten anxiety and stress. Instead, try a calming herbal tea or simply drink water to stay grounded.
Laughter is Good Medicine
Lastly, don’t forget to laugh! Engaging in playful activities or spending time with people who make you smile can help you relax and enjoy the season. Laughter is a natural stress reliever that keeps you in the moment and adds joy to the holidays.
By incorporating some of these practices into your daily routine, you can better manage stress and bring more joy, presence, and gratitude to your holiday season. Wishing you a calm, peaceful, and truly joyful holiday season!