Five tips on dealing with holiday stress

Oh Christmas! Some of us live for this season.

It’s that time of the year that reminds us of joy, peace and giving. It’s a favorite holiday for many because it’s a time where we put our differences aside to share the Christmas cheer.

While we spend time enjoying the company of good friends and family, there is still a silent battle going on.

For some, the holidays are a reminder of the financial stress, family issues and personal struggles that don’t allow any room for celebration.

Holiday stress is a real issue and maybe you’re dealing with it right now as Christmas approaches.

If this describes the situation you’re currently in, here is how you can deal.

Practice self-therapy

Learning how to silence the negative inner voices is a great way to keep the stress away. It takes time to allow the positivity to shine through you but it’s always a worthwhile process.

Make your self-therapy sessions part of your daily routine so that you can break those patterns that are preventing you from thriving. Recognize your triggers and explore some self-calming techniques that work for you.

Be loyal to your goals

Being consistent with your goals is particularly hard to do during the holidays. Yes, you are definitely allowed to relax but you shouldn’t forget the things that keep you motivated.

Sticking to your goals will significantly boost your mood, whether it’s fitness routines, dieting or financial goals.

Consistency is actually very therapeutic in many ways because you won’t feel the anxiety that comes as a result of slacking off.

Do activities you love

If you’re lucky enough to get some time off work, make the most out of it. You have this one chance to enjoy yourself without worrying about a demanding work schedule.

Try and reconnect with your fun, carefree side by working on a painting if you love expressing yourself through art, go swimming as you spend time with your loved ones or explore all the fun activities you were eager to try.

This is a great way of coping with the challenges of life in a healthy way.

Reach out for help

Stress is one of the underlying causes of serious health conditions like heart disease. Although stress affects everyone at some point, some have become so numb to it that it’s a daily part of their lives.

There has definitely been a significant rise in the number of people dealing with severe stress since the pandemic begun and the situation only gets worse if we don’t embrace the need for therapy.

You should reach out to a professional or vent to someone instead of bottling it all up.

Be more present

Stress is often triggered by anxious thoughts about the future. You might find yourself making negative assumptions of how you think the future will be like for you and that will keep you from appreciating where you are right now.

Don’t let stress steal your joy during this holiday season. Be content with the present, surround yourself with people you love and focus on the joys of the festive season.