How to Reduce Holiday Stress

Tips for a more stress-free holiday

Some years it can feel like as soon as you’re done stuffing the Thanksgiving turkey, the remainder of the year goes by in a stress-filled flash. With so much to do, it’s easy for the holidays to become a source of stress rather than a time of joy and celebration. So how can you reduce holiday stress?

Finding ways to ease stress and tension can go a long way in upping your enjoyment of this season. Doing so not only makes your heart happier, but it may keep it healthier, too. That’s because stress can be bad for your heart. In fact, more heart attacks occur during the holiday season than at any other time of year.

7 tips to stress less this holiday season

1. Organize and plan ahead

You don’t have to start Christmas shopping in July, but starting to plan early can help reduce holiday stress later on. Make a list of people to buy gifts for, plan your holiday dinner menu, or begin a mailing list for holiday cards. Anything that makes you feel organized will help put your mind at ease going into the holiday season.

2. Don’t overbook your calendar

There’s no need to drive yourself crazy trying to attend every Christmas party and cookie exchange you’re invited to. Decide which events are most important to you and plan to see everyone else at a later date, when your calendar is more open. Don’t choose obligations over your own sanity.

3. Maintain healthy habits

With all the shopping, baking, and celebrating, it’s easy to get out of your usual routine. But healthy habits are important for preventing illness and fighting stress. Take a daily walk. Eat your fruits and vegetables. Get enough sleep. And follow the other tips in this list to stay as stress-free as possible.

4. Spend smarter

Exchanging presents during the holidays doesn’t have to mean blowing your budget for the year. If you have a large family, suggest a white elephant or secret Santa gift exchange so everyone only has to buy for one person. You’ll have a much happier New Year if you don’t start it off in debt.

5. Take time for yourself

The holidays often include a long to-do list that doesn’t seem to disappear. As busy as you may be, take at least 15 minutes each day to decompress. Ignore your phone, turn on some music and empty your mind. Afterwards, you’ll be recharged and ready to tackle the next project on your list.

6. Keep it simple

Unreasonable expectations can make the holidays fall flat. Instead of trying to make everything perfect, take time to enjoy the little things. Keep holiday decorations simple and make one batch of cookies instead of the usual six. You’ll likely find more joy when you do less rather than more.

7. Make the holidays your own

The holidays aren’t just about pleasing everyone else – you should enjoy them, too. Whatever your favorite tradition may be, whether it’s looking at holiday light displays, watching a classic holiday film or drinking hot cocoa by the fire, make time to enjoy it this holiday season. You deserve it!

Caregiver stress during the holidays

Navigating the holiday season as a caregiver can be an overwhelming experience. Juggling the responsibilities of caring for a loved one alongside the hustle and bustle of the holiday season can add to your stress. At Knute Nelson, we understand the unique challenges that caregivers face, and we are here to provide support.

Our full continuum of aging services ranging from senior living to home health care and hospice, and everything in between, is here to help reduce holiday stress. With our assistance, you can rest assured that your loved one will receive the care they deserve while allowing you time to address other priorities and tasks.

Find peace of mind with Knute Nelson

Let us be a source of support, ensuring both you and your loved one experience a holiday season filled with comfort and peace of mind. We invite you to take this free online assessment to learn if it is time to get help. For more information about our services, please contact us or call (320) 421-0242.