December is approaching and I can already see some of the people who surround me looking for ways to combat holiday stress.
While the winter season and its holidays can be a magical time, most of us admit that this time of year brings a lot of stress and sometimes overwhelm. Sometimes this is pressure to get everything done on time, or to act a certain way that you may not really feel.
First of all, know that you are not alone. Many people struggle over the holidays. The good news is that there are things that you can do to help add more joy back into this season. I’ve created this guide with suggestions on how to stay grounded, joyful and combat the holiday stress that can come at this time of the year.
This blog post is all about ways to combat holiday stress.
Why are we stressed over the holidays?
Knowing how to best combat holiday stress starts with knowing what bothers you over the holidays. This could be anything including:
- Financial stress
- The need to find gifts
- General hustle and bustle of holiday errands
- The need to visit with a lot of people
- Making a big dinner
- Finishing everything on time
- Wondering if everything we are doing is good enough
- Needing to do things because “society says so”
- The burden of travel
- Concern over difficult weather situations
Don’t worry. Here comes the good part. I have tips for you to combat holiday stress coming up!
25 Ways to Combat Holiday Stress
Pick and choose your favourite ways to combat holiday stress from the list below. Customize your holiday season to enjoy it to the most with these suggestions.
1. Make a list of things to do.
A well-organized to-do list can make holiday planning much less stressful. It relieves the burden on your mind to remember everything. Tasks written down make it easier to prioritize what needs to be done.
2. Host a potluck.
Ease the burden of cooking every part of the meal yourself by inviting friends or family to contribute dishes. It’s a wonderful way to share the workload while making everyone feel included.
3. Plan a drop-in gathering.
Skip the stress of hosting a sit-down dinner and opt for a drop-in event. Let guests come and go as they please—it’s more relaxed for everyone!
4. Decorate your space your way.
There’s no “right” way to decorate for the holidays. It’s ok to prefer gnomes over traditional ornaments or no tree at all. Do what feels authentic to you.
5. Listen to music you love.
Holiday music doesn’t have to mean traditional carols. Find covers of festive songs by your favorite artists or create a playlist that puts you in a joyful mood.
6. Light some candles.
Soft candlelight creates a cozy, comforting atmosphere during the darker winter months. Choose seasonal scents like cinnamon or pine for an extra festive touch.
7. Keep a gratitude journal.
When stress builds, take a moment to notice the little things you’re grateful for—sunlight streaming through the window, the warmth of a cup of tea, or the beauty of the trees. Gratitude can help ground you.
8. Spend time with uplifting people.
Make a conscious effort to surround yourself with people who lift your spirits and limit time with those who drain your energy.
9. Visualize your perfect day.
Write down your version of a perfect holiday day, then try to incorporate at least one element of it into the season.
10. Practice breathing exercises.
Deep, intentional breathing can work wonders for your nervous system. Pair it with affirmations like, “I am calm and centered,” to reinforce feelings of peace.
11. Ground yourself.
Grounding techniques, such as taking a walk outside, visualizing roots connecting you to the earth, or using calming essential oils like Frankincense—can help you stay present and manage holiday stress.
12. Eat well.
Be mindful of what you are eating at this time of year, and make an effort to stay hydrated. Nutrition can affect our mood and our sleep so be sure indulge modestly.
13. Spread out your visits.
Instead of trying to see everyone during the holidays, consider scheduling visits into the new year. A January gathering can feel more relaxed once the seasonal chaos is over.
14. Gifts for everyone?
If you have a long gift list, suggest a Secret Santa exchange instead. Spending less can significantly reduce financial stress without taking away the holiday spirit.
15. Create your own traditions.
Holidays don’t have to look a certain way. Create your own traditions on Christmas Eve or host a brunch instead of dinner. Make traditions that truly resonate with you.
16. Set a spending limit.
Avoid holiday debt by setting a budget for gifts and other expenses. Stick to it by reminding yourself that meaningful connections are more important than material things.
17. Stay active.
Movement helps clear your mind and releases endorphins, which are natural stress relievers. Go for a skate, ski outside in the fresh air or dance to your favourite songs on Friday night to get your body moving.
18. Reframe negative thoughts.
If darker days have you feeling down, flip the script. Instead of thinking, “I hate how early it gets dark,” try, “I love the coziness of evenings with candles and fairy lights.” Focus on what you enjoy.
19. Practice self-compassion.
Let go of the idea of a “perfect” holiday. Do your best, and remind yourself that it’s okay to say no or ask for help when needed.
20. Show grace to others.
Remember that most people are dealing with their own holiday stress. Offering patience and understanding can make your interactions more peaceful and pleasant. Lowering your expectations of others will be helpful for both you and those who are on your “nice” list.
21. Acknowledge exhaustion.
If you’re feeling burned out, listen to your body. Take a day (or even an hour) to recharge with a soothing bath, a nap, or quiet time to yourself. Your wellbeing matters.
22. Simplify gift wrapping.
Use gift bags, reusable wrapping cloths, or minimalist designs to save time and effort. These kinds of gifts often look more unique and can be very well received.
23. Keep aromatherapy handy.
A quick spritz of lavender pillow mist or a roll-on with calming oils can offer instant relief when holiday stress sneaks up. Pick your favourite scent to keep you happy and feeling calm.
24. Delegate tasks.
Ask for help! Whether it’s wrapping gifts, cleaning, or decorating, sharing the load can make the season more manageable.
25. Prioritize quality over quantity.
Focus on meaningful moments with loved ones instead of trying to cram every holiday activity into your schedule.
To further help you with your mindset this holiday season, here are 11 positive affirmations that you can use to help relieve stress. Repetition is key. You can use one of the affirmations listed, or modify these to suit your needs.
11 Positive Affirmations to Help You Combat Holiday Stress
- “I am doing the best I can, and that is enough.”
Remind yourself that perfection isn’t required—effort and intention matter most. - “It’s okay to set boundaries and prioritize my wellbeing.”
Boundaries are an act of self-care, not selfishness. - “I let go of what I cannot control and focus on what I can.”
Release the stress of trying to manage everything and embrace peace where it’s possible. - “I allow myself to feel my emotions without judgment.”
Whether you’re feeling joy, sadness, or something in between, all emotions are valid. - “This moment is temporary, and I trust that I will get through it.”
Use this affirmation to ground yourself when overwhelmed. - “Mistakes are a natural part of being human, and they help me grow.”
Holidays don’t have to be perfect—imperfections make them unique and memorable. - “I am worthy of love and kindness, just as I am.”
Especially during the holidays, remember that your value isn’t tied to what you do or give. - “What truly matters is how I feel about myself.”
Not everyone’s opinions will align with yours, and that’s perfectly okay. - “I choose to focus on moments of joy and gratitude.”
This affirmation encourages mindfulness and a positive perspective. - “I release the pressure to please everyone and embrace peace instead.”
You don’t have to meet everyone’s expectations—choose your own peace. - “I deserve rest and relaxation, and I give myself permission to take it.”
When you’re feeling exhausted, this affirmation can help you prioritize self-care guilt-free.
There are many ways to combat holiday stress. The key is knowing what bothers you most and finding an alternative that will work for you. Give yourself permission to rest during this season. Find ways to ground yourself, create your own traditions that make you smile and consider simplifying the season where you can.
Give yourself the gift of peace this season. You deserve it.
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