The majority of us are no strangers to holiday stress. The Christmas season, in particular, can make us feel like our bodies and nervous systems have a hair trigger. But things can change, and you don’t have to wait until next year for a more peaceful holiday.
Set Boundaries and Priorities
There’s little joy or rest for many parents during the holiday season. If obligations to people outside your immediate family supersede your immediate needs (and cause you to neglect your well-being), it’s time to make some adjustments. There are ways to keep family involved without exhausting yourself, your spouse, and your kids:
- Don’t force celebrations or quality time into one day (or season). If traveling during the holidays feels impossible with all the in-laws and extended family to consider, try planning your get-togethers for less busy times of year.
- Connect with out-of-town loved ones on FaceTime. You get to see each other, without the added pressure to cram all the quality time into one day, week, or month of the year.
- Set holiday spending and gifting limits: There’s nothing wrong with splurging now and then. But it’s also not required. Setting limits for how many gifts you’ll give and how much you’ll spend on gifts may help prevent the overwhelm that comes when spending feels out of control.
Avoid What Triggers You Can
We can’t avoid every holiday stressor or every big meal. But we can be honest about what makes us feel stressed, overwhelmed, exhausted, or run down, and do our best to minimize those triggers. For example, if lots of sugar makes you crash, share gifts of cookies and sweets you receive with others who might appreciate them. If caffeine or alcohol makes a bad mood worse, mocktails or decaf taste just as good (without any of the regret later).
Give Your Body a Gift
Our bodies are amazing. They do so much for us throughout the year. Using the time off work or school during the holidays can be a great opportunity to practice self-care and listen to our bodies. Whether that means getting more rest, drinking more water, or boosting your immune support, some simple habit changes can make a big difference. Want to give yourself or a loved one the gift of better health this year?
- We recommend Immun-a-Tea for improved immune support (it’s safe and effective for kids and adults). When taken regularly, patients experience improved immunity and germ resistance over time.
- Looking to treat yourself? Our Wonderful cream (available in 2 oz and 8 oz bottles) is the perfect daily refresh. We call it a facelift in a bottle!
No matter how you celebrate, we hope you have a safe, happy, and (truly) joyful holiday season.
