Ask the Experts Blog

Just like the song, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” many of us look forward to the holidays and spending time with our friends and family, but it can also be the most stressful time of the year.

During this magical time of the year, people often have such high expectations for everything to be perfect. We take on too much, then feel anxious and stressed out when reality doesn’t measure up to what we had envisioned. It’s important that we shift our focus to what’s really important; the people you’re spending your time with.

Make sure you’re taking the time to truly savor the holidays and avoid becoming preoccupied with planning parties, preparing for out-of-town relatives, and buying gifts.

Follow the simple tips below to make the most of the holiday season:

Avoid the #1 Holiday Stressor: Overspending

• Use cash versus a credit card, so you don’t accumulate a high bill.
• Make a list of people you have to buy gifts for and specify a budget per person.
• Shop early, plan, and be organized. Don’t wait to the last minute. Planning ahead gives you the opportunity to be creative. Make your own gifts!
• Take a time-out. Embrace holiday traditions or create new ones. Like, baking, building a snowman, having a movie marathon, or taking the family ice skating.
• And don’t forget – making memories with your family is priceless.

Don’t try to be a Holiday Superhero

• It’s okay if the house isn’t spotless for your guests.
• Keep in mind you don’t have to cook all of the food for the family dinner; store-bought desserts and side dishes are just as yummy.  
• Consider asking other family members or guests to bring a dish to pass.

Take Time to Slow Down

• Breathe! Breathing deeply helps activate your internal relaxation response, clears your mind, and helps to restore your sense of control.
• Focus on what the holidays mean to you. Think about why you celebrate the holidays and spend time taking care of yourself.
• Make sure you get extra rest and eat sensibly— during the holidays, sugary sweets are everywhere, but keep some healthy snacks like fresh fruit and vegetables, almonds, and yogurt on-hand to naturally fuel your energy. Adding fruit to your yogurt can also help satisfy your cravings for sweets.
• Remember to move – Taking a walk, even if it’s just for five minutes, stretching, dancing, or going out for some fresh air will help you tame any stress you’re feeling. You can also block some time on your calendar to accommodate any last-minute preparations that might catch you off-guard.
• Have fun – Winter activities like cross-country skiing, ice skating, sledding, snowboarding, and snowshoeing are great ways to have fun and burn some extra calories. 

What helps you make the most of this time of the year? Share with us in the comments section below!