Winter holidays can bring a sense of comfort and calm, but we should also acknowledge that they can feel chaotic, stressful, and upsetting at times. There’s also the effect of the winter weather on people, which can cause us to feel tired and unmotivated. So let’s discuss some ways to reduce those negative effects and enjoy our holiday season with as little stress as possible.
For me, events and socializing are some of the biggest energy drains. So my first piece of advice is to pick and choose your events. This requires setting some boundaries with people and being willing to tell others “no.” While it can be a difficult thing to start, if you’re able to master this skill you will likely find your holidays becoming less stressful than they were. Also if you’re attending lots of events or hosting them, I’ve found that finding a quiet space where you can de-stress is key. This could be outside, in a quiet room, or just away from the main crowd.
This time of year is a wonderful time to reflect on our past and how we’ve come to our current circumstances. For some, this may be connecting with a comforting piece of media or re-connecting with loved ones. For others, these moments may bring up grief about loved ones who are no longer with us. Whatever emotions come up, we should acknowledge how we are feeling and find healthy ways to express these emotions. I find that journaling is a wonderful way for me to put words to how I’m feeling. I also recommend finding a creative outlet, whether that’s cooking, crafting, or listening to music.
At the end of the day, holidays connect us with the people and traditions that have come before us. That’s why my final recommendation is, I think, the best and, in some ways, the simplest of all. It’s simply talking to someone you care about and connecting with them. Especially nowadays, it’s easy for our relationships to take a backseat compared to our other priorities. So try and take some time to connect with the people who are important to you. I hope that your holidays bring rest, rejuvenation, and reflection coming into the new year.
