Christmastime can be extremely busy. You are usually running around trying to get all of the last-minute things done before the holiday. Sometimes, it’s difficult to sit back, relax, and enjoy Christmas. According to the American Psychological Association, 89% of Americans experience stress or feel overwhelmed during the holidays. In fact, for some people, it is even more stressful than tax season. However, it’s supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year. So, what can you do if you want to relax this Christmas? Consider the tips in this guide to help you embrace the magic of the season.
1. Plan Ahead to Avoid Last-Minute Stress
It’s probably a little too late to implement this tip for the 2024 season, but planning ahead will help you avoid stress. Something I like to do to help me get through the season is creating lists. I have a list of things I’d like to do with our kids like writing a letter to Santa, getting to the mall for photos, seeing Christmas lights, baking cookies, and doing crafts. Other lists that might be helpful are shopping lists, lists for things to do around the house, meal planning, and budget lists. All of this will help you stay organized and be able to breathe in the moment.
Delegate, delegate, delegate. One surefire way to help you have a Christmas where you can relax is handing off some of the tasks to other people. Maybe you send your husband out to get specific gifts or you have your sister grab the holiday turkey. Lightening your load can make things go smoother.
I’d also suggest checking out one of the budgeting apps that made this “Best Of” list. An app that helps you manage your money during the holiday season can make a huge difference in your stress levels.
2. Create a Cozy and Festive Atmosphere
Your surroundings have a lot to do with how you feel. Getting rid of clutter can help you reduce your stress. Additionally, adding some of your favorite Christmas decor and creating a cozy space can make you feel happy. Just remember to keep your decorations simple and meaningful. This will prevent you from getting overwhelmed with all of the small things. Add personal touches, such as handmade ornaments or family photos, to make your space uniquely festive. This can really lift your spirits.
3. Simplify Your Holiday Menu
Believe it or not, your family and friends won’t remember what was served at your table this holiday. What matters is spending time together. So, consider simplifying your menu. It doesn’t need to be some 10-course meal. Choose a few dishes that you know are crowd-pleasers that can be prepped ahead of time. This will take you out of the kitchen and put you back in the celebration. It will also take the stress of cooking the entire meal off of you. You’ll have everything ready to go and it can be low effort.
Another option is having a potluck-style get-together. Everyone can bring their favorite dishes. Doing this ensures that there is something at the table that everyone will eat. Again, it takes the responsibility of the holiday meal off your plate and it can create a unique bonding opportunity.
4. Embrace Meaningful Traditions Over Perfection
One thing our family is trying to do more of this year is establish fun traditions. Things don’t have to be perfect, but I want to create fun, meaningful memories with my children. So, we’ve decided to do a few fun things that we’ll carry over from year to year. Here are some ideas of traditions you can start with your family:
- Bake cookies together
- Have a decorating party
- Watch classic Christmas movies
- Write cards or letters to each other
- Make homemade gifts
- Volunteer together
- Advent calendars
- Matching pajamas
- Decorate gingerbread houses
- Adopt a family to give presents to
- Elf on the Shelf
- Sing carols
Prioritizing traditions fosters connection and reduces the pressure to impress, ultimately allowing you to relax more during the holiday season.
5. Prioritize Relaxation and Self-Care
One way you can really cut down on stress during the holidays is by prioritizing relaxation and self-care. Make sure you are saving space for yourself to recharge and enjoy the season fully. Take these ideas into consideration.
- Set boundaries: Knowing your limits and communicating them with others can help you feel less overwhelmed.
- Schedule downtime: It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season, but it’s important to schedule some downtime or you’ll burn out.
- Practice gratitude: Remembering to be thankful for everything you have can help you focus on the true meaning of Christmas.
- Get enough sleep: You should aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night to feel your best.
- Set realistic expectations: A lot of your stress stems from your expectations of what the holiday should look like. Make sure what you’re expecting from yourself and everyone else is realistic.
- Maintain healthy habits: Even though it’s a busy time of year, it’s important not to give up your healthy habits. If you run every day, continue doing it through the holiday season.
- Take breaks: It’s okay to step away at an event and just take a breather. Go outside, get some fresh air, enjoy a quiet moment, and then you can go back with a clear mind.
Other things you might consider doing are things like limiting screen time and social media. You can also find uplifting books, music, or podcasts to maintain a positive mood. Remember, self-care is essential for truly enjoying the season.
6. Keep Gift-Giving Simple and Thoughtful
Your gifts don’t have to be extravagant to make an impact. Keep things simple and thoughtful. Last year, my friend put together a basket of homemade items for me. I was about to give birth to my second child and the basket included things like homemade essential oil Epsom salts for my bath, homemade soaps, a handmade candle, and a few special treats. That gift is something that I’ll remember for a long time. Focus on quality over quantity and choose items that resonate with the recipient’s interests. If you aren’t handy, you can also consider experience-based gifts like tickets to a show or even a spa day. These types of gifts will create lasting memories.
Celebrate the Joy of Simplicity
Letting go of the need for perfection and embracing what can be a simple, relaxing holiday is key to cutting down your stress levels this Christmas. Make a plan, focus on traditions, and prioritize happiness this season. A peaceful Christmas at home allows you to cherish what matters most: the love and connections shared with family and friends.
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