4 min read

How to Cope With Holiday Stress

This year, holiday celebrations are looking a bit different because of the restrictions in place. At the time, when we are used to getting together with family and friends, we are unable to celebrate safely the same way we used to in the past. Some are taking the risk and traveling to see family anyway, others are looking for virtual ways to connect and many may not have the opportunity to celebrate at all. In all circumstances, everyone around the world is faced with the challenge of the new normal during the holiday season. This can be very stressful especially with all the posed challenges this year.

If you are reading this post, I am going to give you 3 powerful tips that will help you cope with holiday stress this year.

1. Keep communicating and stay connected

During times of stress, it could seem much easier to think of ways to avoid stress by isolating yourself. Although it is healthy to take time for yourself and practice self-care, it is equally important to recognize if you are spending too much time alone and avoiding contact with those who are close to you. If you find yourself heading toward isolation, take a few minutes a day to communicate with someone close to you. Let them know that you care for them, share your struggles, tell them a joke, or share a funny story. Staying connected not only decreases stress during holidays, but it also improves wellbeing overall.

2. Try something different

Sometimes doing the same thing over and over again can create a boring routine. Over time, you may find yourself just going through the motions and not enjoying what you are doing at the moment. If you find yourself bored with your daily routine, try doing something different to alter your routine. Here are a few suggestions:

Take a different route to your destination
Exercise at a different time
Try a new activity
Practice gratitude

3. Reflect

If you typically have a busy routine, reflecting is essential to process your thoughts and emotions about your day. The busiest of people have to make an effort to find time to reflect. This can be done in bed when you first wake up or before you go to sleep or even in the shower. It is very important to find a place where you can be still and in solitude.

Give yourself permission to relax, be still, and breathe while blocking any surrounding distractions. You will notice your thoughts will start to race and you may even feel a bit anxious about things you have to do or should have done. Let your thoughts come and go without judgment. Remember your goal while reflecting is to observe your experience fully so you can make sense of it. Pay attention to your mood and mindset. If you are wanting to reflect on a specific topic, you may want to think about the following questions:

Why is this topic important to you?
What are you trying to understand or accomplish?
What did you learn about yourself from the experiences you had pertaining to this topic?
What are your limitations?
In what ways have you challenged yourself to grow?

Reflecting is a very powerful tool to evaluate if you are living the life you want and presenting your best self. I challenge you to try one of these tips once a day for the next week and see how they can change your life.