Tips to De-stress During the Holidays.
The holidays are meant to be the most wonderful time of the year, but let’s face it—they can also feel like the most stressful. Between the endless to-do lists, packed schedules, and the pressure to make everything just right, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly makes the season special. It’s time to de-stress for the holidays.
But here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to be that way. With a few simple shifts, you can trade the chaos for calm and focus on the joy, connection, and little moments that make the holidays magical. Let’s talk about how to de-stress and truly savor this season.
Tis the Season to say Ho, Ho, NO!
Do you really need to do so many things and have so many obligations? Really? Before you commit to anything (attending anything, organizing anything, baking anything, etc…) ask yourself – “ Will this bring joy to my holiday? Will this bless my family or take time away from my family celebration? Would I be happier reading a story to my kids or baking cookies or sipping cocoa?”
Many hands make light work.
Offer to trade hours with close friends to help each other deep clean your homes in the beginning of November. Or make it a family event and get every one involved. Get all the major cleaning out of the way then set up a weekly maintenance plan to keep it looking fresh all season long. Then you can concentrate on having fun instead of cleaning the oven!
Use your computer!
Many of you already do this but for those who don’t (clears throat, cough, cough, boomers, cough, cough) please take advantage of all the wonderful time saving things the internet has available to you.
Simplify your holiday prep with online tools: use gift guides, price comparison tools, and online wish lists to streamline shopping. For stress-free planning, try digital planners, meal kit services, or invitation, cards and party planning sites to keep everything organized. Browse websites like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace for unique, budget-friendly gift ideas. And don’t forget virtual visits! Platforms like Zoom or Facebook Messenger help you stay connected with loved ones, no matter the distance, and all that jazz.
Get Stuff Done Already.
I know it’s said by everyone, every year – “Why did I leave all this to the last minute???!!!” Well, stop it! Start organizing early and give yourself deadlines. If you’ve never known the calm of having everything ready and nothing to do but relax before the holiday then it’s time to change your ways.
Simplify.
Don’t do so much. Limit gift giving. Make ahead some simple homemade kitchen gifts like cookies or bottles of liqueurs. Streamline gift giving with The 4-Gift Rule – Something they want, something they need, something to wear, something to read—keeps gifting simple and thoughtful. Have a few “generic” gifts wrapped, like chocolate or ornaments available should someone drop in and surprise you with a gift . Make your December meals simpler than usual. Always opt for easy.
Focus on people instead of things:
Slow Down – Play games, read a book together, listen to music, plan activities.
Unplug – Turn off devices to be fully present with loved ones.
Mindful Moments – Embrace small joys, like sipping cocoa together, watching the snowfall, or decorating cookies as a family.
Schedule time for You.
Make time to decompress. Take a bubble bath, meditate, listen to music, read a book, or watch a movie that’s just for you. You must recharge your batteries. No guilt allowed.
Go for a walk.
Bundle up and get out for some exercise. Enjoy the decorated homes and the winter landscape. You’ll feel so much better and clear headed when you get home.
Remember, the holidays aren’t about perfection—they’re about connection. By letting go of unrealistic expectations and focusing on what truly matters, you can create a season filled with joy, not stress. Simplify where you can, embrace moments of quiet, and prioritize time with loved ones over endless to-dos. After all, the best gift you can give yourself and others this year is a happy, present, and peaceful you. Now go ahead and sprinkle some magic on the season—without losing your sparkle in the process!
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