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 not alone in feeling this way. The holiday season can be a time of joy, but it also brings unique pressures: high expectations, looming deadlines, and endless to-do lists. It’s easy to get swept up in the hustle and lose sight of what matters most. The good news is that there are simple, grounding strategies to help you navigate this season with more peace and joy.
Mindfulness
Start by taking a moment each day to focus on your breath. Mindful breathing is a powerful tool to calm your mind. When you feel overwhelmed, pause and try this: inhale deeply for four counts, hold for four, and exhale for six. This practice centers your thoughts and brings you back to the present moment, helping you feel more grounded.
Another helpful practice is setting daily intentions. Before diving into holiday preparations, try affirming something like, “I will enjoy this process” or “I choose peace today.” Intentions act as a guiding focus, steering your mind away from stress and toward calm.
Gratitude
Gratitude is one of the best ways to shift your mindset during the holidays. Begin or end your day by reflecting on three things you’re grateful for. These don’t have to be big—even small joys like a warm cup of tea or a loved one’s smile can create a meaningful shift in perspective. Gratitude transforms chaos into appreciation and helps you embrace the joy of the season.
Self-Care
Amid the busyness, prioritize self-care. It might seem hard to carve out time for yourself, but even 10 minutes of something soothing—reading, taking a bath, or going for a short walk—can reset your energy. These moments allow you to approach the day with a more relaxed and balanced mindset.
Grounding
Grounding exercises can also help when you’re feeling anxious or rushed. Pause and notice the physical sensations around you. Feel your feet on the floor, stretch your body, or take a deep breath. These small actions can pull you out of racing thoughts and anchor you in the present moment.
Simplifying your tasks is another effective way to manage stress. Instead of juggling everything at once, break tasks into smaller, manageable pieces. Focus on one thing at a time and let go of the pressure to multitask. This approach reduces overwhelm and gives you a sense of control.
Spending time in nature is another powerful way to reset. Even a few minutes outside can have a calming effect. Observe the sights, sounds, and smells around you with mindfulness; it’s a simple yet effective way to ease tension.
If anxiety persists, try the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique: 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 exercise shifts your focus away from stress and back to the present.
Saying “No” is Okay
The holidays often come with invitations and obligations, but it’s essential to recognize when you need to say no. Setting boundaries is a key act of self-care. Saying no without guilt helps prevent burnout and keeps your well-being intact.
Also, remember 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 togetherness, and leaving room for spontaneity and fun.
Presence Over Presents
Shift your mindset from focusing on presents to prioritizing presence. The relationships and experiences shared during the holidays are far more meaningful than material gifts. By being fully present with loved ones, stress diminishes, and joy naturally follows.
If stress creeps in, set aside a few minutes for a brief meditation. Sit quietly, focus on your breath, or repeat a calming phrase like “I am calm” or “I am here.” Meditation fosters peace and clarity, even in the busiest moments.
Reducing stimulants like caffeine and sugar can also help. While these might provide temporary energy, they can heighten anxiety. Opt for calming herbal teas or simply stay hydrated with water.
Laughter is Good Medicine
Finally, don’t forget to laugh! Spend time with people who make you smile or engage in playful activities. Laughter is a natural stress reliever that keeps you in the moment and adds joy to the season.
By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can manage stress more effectively and bring greater joy, presence, and gratitude to your holiday season. Wishing you a calm, peaceful, and truly joyful holiday!