Throughout the country people are facing the reality
that the holidays will be different this year. While most of us look forward to
the holiday season with excitement and joy, most people also agree that the
demands of the holidays, especially with combined families, can take their toll
on us. Rather than feeling glum about what we will miss this year, we have the
perfect opportunity to set new boundaries and expectations for our holidays so
everyone can enjoy them. Here are 7 ways to destress during the holidays this
year.
1. Limit Your Sugar
The holidays are a time to
indulge your sweet tooth and enjoy the special flavors of the season. Excess
sugar intake, however, can cause the body to release cortisol, a stress
hormone, which can lead to physical and emotional side effects. You don’t have
to give up sugar altogether, though. Just commit to eating only what you really
enjoy and leave the rest. Try some dessert recipes that are full of
antioxidants, such as pies, cakes, and cookies made with Superberries Frozen
Aronia Berries, or use Aronia Berry Concentrate to brighten up your spritzers.
2. Exercise
Too often we feel strapped for time
during the holidays. This year, use the extra time you have to exercise daily,
even if you just get out for a walk. The endorphins released when you exercise will
help you feel happier and more relaxed. Be sure to take some time for
stretching, too.
3. Laugh
We’ve all heard that laughter is the best
medicine. Now that the whole country has learned to use online video chat
platforms, take some time to talk to people who really make you laugh. Zoom
with your old classmate. Facetime with an old work friend. Remind yourself who
you really enjoy talking to and make an appointment to laugh.
4. Create New Traditions
This is the perfect year to
consider the traditions your family has, which ones everyone still values and
discard those that don’t bring you joy anymore. Does everyone feel overwhelmed
by the expectation to buy presents for every family member? Draw names so that
each person is only responsible for one person outside of their immediate
family group. Does it stress you out having dinner with two families on the
same day? Perhaps have dinner with just your immediate family and join your
extended families for desserts on different days so that you have time to sit
and enjoy their company.
5. Maintain a Schedule
During the holidays, it is
easy to abandon our work-week schedules and let our days unfold free-form.
Maintaining a bedtime and enjoying a consistent amount of sleep will not only
ease your transition back into work after the holidays, but it will help limit
your stress. Prioritizing sleep will help you enjoy the time you do spend with
family and friends.
6. Manage Expectations
This year is different for
everyone, and it is important to be honest about that, especially with
children. If holiday celebrations must be different this year, discussing that
honestly with young people in ways that they can understand will be less
stressful in the long run than not confiding in them. You must do the same for
yourself, too. Be honest about what you want versus what is expected of you,
and only give what you are willing.
Many people complain about how stressful the holiday
season is. When pressed to explain why they often discuss all the activities
they have planned. With so many cities in partial lockdown or discouraging
large social gatherings, this is the perfect opportunity to do less and enjoy
more. Savor the activities you do with your children. Enjoy preparing your
meals. Take a moment to watch birds at a feeder. Slowing down and taking time
to notice is sure to lower your stress.
The holidays will be what you choose to make of them.
Find joy in the simplicity this year is imposing upon us at home with your
loved ones. If you do celebrate with extended family or if you celebrate alone,
focus on the positives and all the strength we have all shown this year. Next
year, when the world returns to normal, I hope we all can choose to maintain
the better paths we followed this year.