7 Holiday Stress Busters

The holiday season can be a very hectic and busy time.
Working, luncheons, dinner engagements, parties, gift purchasing, wrapping, decorating, baking, dinners to prepare and/or attend can leave one feeling stressed and exhausted just thinking about it.
It doesn’t have to be stressful though. In fact, the holidays can be a very peaceful time. We have to remember that pressure, worry, tension and the anxiety we might feel is brought on from ourselves and our beliefs, not the holidays.

1. Plan your month. If you organize your month the best you can, you will feel less frazzled and more dazzled.
Make sure there are some empty spaces to reschedule things as life is filled with wonderful unexpected happenings. We have to love these as they really put into perspective what’s really important at the end of the day.
Most importantly, schedule time for you, especially if it’s going to be a really busy week. If you pencil in your name at a certain time and day, then you are more likely to follow through with it.

2. Say no. If you are the kind of person that gets invited to everything, everywhere, know where to draw the line.
Saying no isn’t the hard part. What can be difficult is the way you might feel when you do.
Often people feel obligated to go places and are afraid if they don’t, others won’t understand or will be upset and, they very well might be. Trying to please everyone leaves one feeling stressed, so choose events that are most important to you and let the others go.

3. Ask for help. This isn’t an easy task for some as they feel they “should” be able to handle it all. They might even see it as a sign of weakness yet it is one of strength because you are recognizing the importance of taking care of you first instead of everyone else.
When you take on too much it can leave you feeling tired, worn out and overwhelmed, but when someone helps, it allows more time for you to relax and enjoy the things that are most valuable.

4. Relaxation. The problem a lot of people face during their busy weeks, and especially during the holidays, is there isn’t any time to relax.
The thing is you have to schedule the time by putting it on your calendar or making sure each week there is some down time just for you.
When you are relaxed you will be much more effective, happy and organized than if you are stressed.
If you can’t commit to specific times or days, then at least take some time to sit quietly even if it’s only for a few minutes.

5. Comfort and joy. How much comfort and joy can you have if you are stressed out and panicking about things?
Take a bath, curl up and watch your favourite movie, play a board or card game, listen to music, meditate, light some candles, cook a comfort meal, have a cup of tea, etc.
When you are doing things that promote comfort and joy, the stress just seems to melt away like an icicle on a warm winter’s day.

6. Go for a walk. Whether you take the dog, the kids, your partner, or go by yourself, taking a stroll is good for the heart and soul.
Being in the fresh air, seeing the stars twinkle, or the sun shining, listening to the birds singing or the breeze blowing awakens your senses to the glorious wonders of nature.

7. Breathe. Remember to pay attention to your breathing. Take a few deep breaths as often as possible; this relaxes the body and mind.
When we are stressed our breathing becomes very shallow and comes from our chests rather than our stomachs.
It’s quite amazing what a few deep breaths can do for you.
It’s up to you how stressful or enjoyable the holidays will be. Make YOU a priority this Season.
Take time to enjoy as many wonderful moments as you can because you’re worth it.
The Insight Technique™ assists you in transforming stress into joy and peace.