Ideas for when it’s all just too much
Your heart starts racing. Breaths are shorter. You lash out at someone you love. We’ve all been there. When the holidays hit, most of us already have so much on our plate that we aren’t able to keep up with any of it. Shopping, wrapping gifts, hosting a party, attending an event, seeing family – it can all be too much. So what do you do when things get overwhelming? Here are some ideas to help make this holiday season more merry than miserable.
Take a deep breath
When you start to have more stress in your body, everything tightens up and your body produces more cortisol. Health impacts when we are running 24/7 are even worse and can lead to chronic illness. The first step is to take a deep breath and start to release some stress.
Keep an active to-do list
Staying organized can be a challenge when things seem too busy to manage. Having an active to-do list that is updated daily can help bring a sense of calm and accomplishment in the little things you don’t realize you are doing. So go ahead, and cross those items off your list. Here are more ideas for getting organized for the holidays.
Focus on what matters most
This is a hard one. We rarely think of ourselves in the equation, but our health and well-being should be at the top of the list. Does the laundry really have to get done TODAY? What can we outsource? Can Grandma come to babysit for a few hours so you can get some things done, work out or rest? Focusing on what actually needs to get done and by when can help provide a sense of stress relief and focus for the day. There is so much wasted energy focusing on what we can’t control vs. what we can.
Exercise more
We know the main excuse: there’s just not enough time. Instead of discounting the idea of having more time, picture it as a choice in prioritizing your health this holiday season vs. the beautifully wrapped gifts. You have to make time and you have to follow through. Notice how you feel after. Schedule time daily or weekly and stay on track. Find a buddy or bring your whole family with you. Besides, that will also help keep the holiday weight off too!
Make time for you
The holidays are more fun with friends and family. Be sure you build in time to see those most important to you, but don’t over-schedule yourself. Between all of your holiday gatherings, make time for yourself, your spouse or partner, and your immediate family. Sometimes it’s more fun to meet up in January and catch up with old friends. Self-care can also be a time to recharge after a busy weekend of social events. Whatever it is that makes you happy, whether it’s reading a book, napping, or a massage, schedule it ahead of time and you will be even more grateful.
Take it all in
The holidays can be a magical time with so many precious moments with our loved ones. If you are too busy doing last-minute things, you may miss it. The kids under the tree, Grandma playing games, or everyone getting along. Be present, put away your phone, and enjoy every moment. Here are more ideas on how to slow down and savor the holidays.
Seek a therapist
If that anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed feeling still won’t go away, seeking professional help is just a virtual call away. There are so many benefits to working with a therapist or counselor during the busy holiday season. Talk to your doctor or seek virtual medical appointments through your health insurance for an easy way to get started.
