The holiday season may be a fun time for kids, but it is a time of stress for many adults. From wondering how you will pay for all those gifts to coming up with creative ways to impress the in-laws, the stresses of the holiday season can make it anything but merry.
Taking the time to de-stress your life can let you enjoy this special season and really get into the holiday spirit. Use these tips to reduce your stress level and enjoy the holiday season as much as your kids.
Set a smart budget –
Overspending is a frequent source of holiday stress. Avoid this common problem by setting – and sticking to – a holiday budget. Be sure to set an overall budget – and an individual spending limit for everyone on your gift list.
Enjoy a spa day –
Don’t be afraid to spend some of that holiday budget on yourself. Enjoying a day at the spa is the perfect way to send those holiday cares packing.
Let someone else do the cooking –
You do not have to be the only one doing the cooking this holiday season. Delegate some of the meal preparation to other family members – or enjoy a delicious carry-out dinner one or twice a week.
Spend time with your kids –
Set aside some time to just relax and have fun with your kids. Play an old fashioned board game, throw a ball around in the back yard, or just sit down for a long talk.
Enjoy a soothing glass of wine –
Wine goes great with the holidays. Enjoy a glass of your favourite vintage as you wrap presents, set up the tree or just relax in front of a crackling fire.
Take a long bubble bath –
Sometimes a soothing bubble bath is the best way to banish stress. Draw a relaxing hot bath, add your favourite scented oils and some fun bubbles and feel the stress of the holiday season melt away.
Get your shopping done early –
Waiting until the last minute will do nothing to reduce your stress level. Vow to get your shopping done early this year – then sit back, relax and enjoy the rest of the holiday season.
Get moving –
Exercise is a great way to reduce stress, so don’t be afraid to get moving. Regular exercise will make you feel better – and help you avoid packing on those holiday pounds.
Get help –
You do not have to go it alone during the holidays. Asking your family members for help is not a sign of weakness – it is a sign of intelligence. Ask for help when you need it – and reduce your stress this holiday season.
Be flexible –
Flexibility is the key during the holidays. Lots of things can happen at the last minute – from winter weather to illness. Those things can scuttle your carefully laid plans, but you do not have to let that stress you out. Remain flexible, and enjoy those changes when they come around.
