Financial hardship could lead to increased stress this holiday season, as the nation struggles to climb out of a recession. People are out of work, low on cash, and even when these factors aren’t tossed in, the holiday season can still be a stressful one. Whether you’re stressing about preparing a big meal, dealing with Aunt Susie’s ridiculous stories, or wishing for a few extra dollars in your pocket it’s important not to let stress bog you down.
Here’s a list of the top 10 ways to beat holiday stress:
Do something for yourself. Drop in on a yoga class or get a massage to reset your body and mind.- Do something nice for someone without expecting anything in return.
- Reach out. If you feel lonely or isolated, seek out community, religious or other social events. They can offer support and companionship.
- Eat better and go easy on the alcohol, it will help keep the extra pounds off
- Stick to a budget. Before you go gift and food shopping, decide how much money you can afford to spend. Then stick to your budget.
- Don’t hurry. Holiday travel is always a slog, so just go with the flow.
- Plan ahead. Set aside specific days for shopping, baking, visiting friends and other activities. Plan your menus and then make your shopping list. That’ll help prevent last-minute scrambling to buy forgotten ingredients.
- Even for a moment here and there, view the season from a kid’s angle.
- It’s OK to say no once in awhile.
- Set aside differences. Try to accept family members and friends as they are, even if they don’t live up to all of your expectations.
- Listed compiled by the Seattle Times and Mayo Clinic
