 Happy “Less Stress” Holidays To All!
The holidays are here! Christmas, New Years, Hanukkah and all! And with that also the year end to do's and deadlines at work and in our personal lives, invitations to all sorts of holiday parties and gatherings and ...expectations. And with these expectations comes the stress. Whatever holidays of the year's end you celebrate; Here are some tips to lower that stress and make this holiday season merry and bright again. It's OK to Lower Expectations To lower your stress, ask yourself and the loved ones you’re celebrating with what things or traditions are truly important in your holiday celebration. It’s ok to limit the things you say yes to. This could mean not feeling obligated to go to all offered holiday gatherings or even limit the time you spend there. Or it could mean baking or making fewer goodies, which also lowers stress from overindulgence. Or maybe it could mean having simpler meals on the major holiday celebrations. For some it could be needing to lower expectations about gift giving and sticking to a budget. Every family is different and can identify different ways to lower exceptions and stress. It's OK to Take Turns Hosting Hosting holiday parties is inherently stressful. So taking turns being the host provides for breaks for everyone. And the host can choose to keep the foods simple. Have you tried a simple but fun Holiday Charcuterie? Or another alternative is to share the cooking with a holiday potluck, where everyone brings a dish and thereby easing the load and stress for the host. It's OK to Implement Relaxing Traditions Make it a tradition to implement relaxing rituals. Plan at least one day or part of one day for ways to relax. Maybe plan a day for just staying in your PJs, play with the kids, watch holiday movies, or do whatever is relaxing to you. If staying at home does not bring you rest and relaxation, consider spending a day or two in a winter get-away where you can relax. Let's make this holiday season a relaxing one! It's OK! Wishing You and Yours a Very Happy Holiday Season for 2022 and A Wonderful Start to The New Year! ~ Let's Talk! ~ Petra If you are experiencing a mental health emergency please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 Or go to your nearest emergency room. petracounseling.com Comments are closed.
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Author
I am a Nationally Certified- and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Idaho. With over eight years of experience, I specialize in counseling and consulting with adults of all ages, facing anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief & loss, life stage issues, stress and more. |
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