Ah, the holidays—a time for twinkling lights, family gatherings, and that unmistakable feeling of magic in the air. But let’s be honest, the “most wonderful time of the year” can also be one of the most stressful.
Do you feel a tingle of anxiety set in somewhere between Thanksgiving and Christmas? What is that all about??
A 2023 poll by the American Psychological Association found that 41% of adults experience increased stress during the holidays. For those living with mental health challenges, 64% report feeling worse this time of year.
As I looked into it more I found that heart attacks are more common around the holidays, with studies showing a spike in incidents during late December and early January.
According to the American Heart Association, the risk of a heart attack increases by nearly 37% on Christmas Eve, peaking around 10 p.m. Factors like increased stress, overindulgence in food and alcohol, and cold weather can contribute to this heightened risk.
Additionally, research published in the *British Medical Journal* highlights that deaths from heart-related issues are more likely to occur on Christmas Day, December 26th, and New Year’s Day than at any other time of the year.
Are you as dumbfounded as me about these statistics?
How can we reclaim the joy and connection of the season without letting the chaos take over?
It starts with slowing down and being intentional.
Here are 7 tips to help you savor the season and prioritize your well-being
1. Practice Gratitude
Gratitude is more than a warm, fuzzy feeling; it’s a proven stress-buster with benefits ranging from better sleep to stronger relationships. Keep it simple:
– Start a gratitude jar: Write down moments that spark joy, and revisit them whenever you need a boost.
– Take a few minutes each day to reflect on something you’re grateful for—maybe it’s a crisp winter morning, a laugh with a friend, or a good cup of coffee.
Gratitude doesn’t erase the challenges, but it shifts your focus to what’s good, grounding you in the present moment.
2. Acknowledge Your Feelings
The holidays can stir up a whirlwind of emotions—joy, grief, nostalgia, and even stress. Let yourself feel it all. Suppressing your emotions only amplifies them.
– Write in a journal to unpack your thoughts.
– Share how you’re feeling with someone you trust. I have a small group of friends that I walk with. It’s our mini-therapy session and light exercise all in one. A friend isn’t available? The dog always wants a walk.
3. Learn to Say “No
Holiday schedules can fill up fast, but you don’t have to say “yes” to everything. Overcommitting can leave you feeling drained and resentful.
Remember: “No” is a complete sentence. Protect your time and energy by setting boundaries that honor your capacity. This leaves more room for the things you truly want to do. Trust me I’m a work in progress on this one but I’m getting better.
4. Stick to Healthy Habits
Amid all the parties, cookies, and late nights, it’s easy to let healthy routines slide. I mean, eggnog is like a perfect food. Ugh. But overindulging in cookies and late-night sugar binges is the fastest way for me to feel lousy. Maintaining our well-being is key to enjoying the holidays.
– Eat mindfully: Snack on fruits and veggies before gatherings and savor small portions of indulgent treats. I prep lots of extra veggies ahead of time and have hard-boiled eggs and salad on hand so I can reach for that instead of cookies and fudge.
– Prioritize sleep: Stick to a consistent bedtime, and create a calm, cozy sleep environment. Indulge in an extra ‘bubble gum’ novel to wind down with.
– Stay active: Take a brisk walk, stretch, or dance to your favorite holiday tunes. Movement is a mood-lifter and the ‘it’s too cold’ is a mindset!
5. Simplify Your Traditions
Traditions are the heart of the holidays, but they shouldn’t feel like a to-do list. If baking 12 dozen cookies or decorating every inch of the house feels like too much, it’s okay to scale back. I did this year.
Focus on what matters most to you and your loved ones. Sometimes, less really is more.
6. Carve Out Quiet Moments
Amid the hustle and bustle, make time to slow down. A few quiet moments can work wonders for your peace of mind.
– Brew a cup of tea and daydream.
– Take a few minutes of deep breaths, purposefully.
– Read a book, listen to music, or simply be still.
These pauses help you recharge and stay present.
7. Give or Serve Others
The holidays are a perfect time to spread kindness, which also boosts your own sense of joy and purpose. Whether it’s volunteering at a local shelter or food bank, writing a heartfelt card, or baking for a neighbor, small acts of giving ripple outward in big ways.
Find a way to serve that resonates with you, your values, and your time. When we give to others, we also give to ourselves.
Savor the Season
This holiday season, resist the urge to sprint through the weeks ahead. Instead, embrace the slower pace, focus on what fills your cup, and let go of what doesn’t. By practicing these tips, you can turn the holidays into a time of connection, reflection, and genuine joy.
Here’s to making this season the most wonderful time of the year—for real.
