9 Ways to Prevent a Holiday Meltdown
What if you could head off your holiday stress before it even begins?
What if instead of being reactive to circumstances you could respond in a way that allows you to feel completely at ease?
Here are 9 Ways to Help You be Supported, Relax Into and Enjoy the Holidays
1) Let Go of Expectations
Yes. You read that right. Expectations of yourself and others often become amplified and unrealistic around the holidays. Let go of your expectations. Be curious and open instead. Let go of the need for perfectionism. Instead, ask for support. Be willing to delegate tasks with the belief that the support will be there if you ask for it.
2) Don't Over Commit
It is easy to over commit by filling your calendar with perceived obligations from family and work. This often means stretching yourself too thin and sacrificing your self-care time, which is even more essential during the holidays. Be willing to say NO. Decline invitations. Schedule time for things and holiday activities that really bring you joy.
3) Be Mindful of Family Friction
Tension often escalates and tests already strained relationships in your family when you are spending more time with them. Make sure to take time for yourself. To breathe. Again… Let go of expectations here. And practice kindness and compassion with yourself and others.
4) Make Sure to Get Enough Rest, Sleep and Self-Care
Without proper rest you will be more apt to get stressed more easily, be grumpier, not eat as well, and even reduce your exercise. All this compromises your immune system and will make you more prone to colds, the flu and even depression. SO… make sure that getting a good night's sleep is a priority. And make time to move your body in ways that support your self-care.
5) Limit How Much Alcohol You Drink
If you like to drink, commit to a limit on your alcohol consumption. You may be used to having a glass of wine or beer at the end of a long day to help you relax and de-stress. Drinking more won't decrease your holiday stress. It actually amplifies it. Alcohol is a depressant so more of it can leave you feeling even more emotional, depressed or angry. Set your limit to one to two drinks a day. Oh… And be sure to have a designated driver when going out.
6) Eat Nutritiously and Mindfully
Indulging in extra sugar and carbohydrates often comes with the holidays. Plan your nutrition ahead of time. Slow your eating down – especially if you tend to overeat when you are stressed. Eat mindfully and with gratitude so as not to overindulge and then feel bloated and uncomfortable.
7) Be Mindful of Your Budget
There are many ways to give at the holidays without overextending your budget. Try giving your time to an organization or person you know could use it. Give a helping hand to a mother with young children by offering to child sit or even bring in some meals to help. And give yourself permission to receive. Ask for help if you need it. People, in general want to help. And religious groups, and charitable organizations are there to help you if you need it.
8) Be open and Honest About Your Feelings
There is often pressure to be cheery during the Holidays. This can be difficult if you are struggling with depression or grief. Ask for help and choose which activities you want to engage in where you can feel uplifted without having to fake being happy.
9) Be Flexible
Recognize the value of tradition and be open to creating new ones for yourself. If plans change, trust it is all in Divine order and allow yourself to be curious to new plans and activities.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holy Days to you.
Yes. You Matter. Own Your Value. It's all about You. And it's about being In Touch In Life.
Teresa Lea, BA NCLMBT # 1804
If you found this of value and want to find out about Teresa Lea and her work and more ways to care for yourself, go to www.InTouchInLife.com or call 336-623-9138
Thank you for the valuable information and recommendations!