Tips to Handle Christmas Stresses and Make the Holidays Enjoyable

Christmas time can certainly be the most wonderful time of the year; however, it can also be very stressful. Some people may have financial worries, with the added pressure of having to buy presents and food for the occasion. For others, it may be the social events (whether in person or virtual), as well as family stresses. Social anxiety can also heighten around this time of year. It’s important to be able to draw strength from within and learn how to handle Christmas stresses to make the Holidays enjoyable. Below are some tips to help you with this festive season.

1. Don’t put yourself under financial strain.

If you can’t afford to do something or buy somebody a present, then be open. Friends and family love us for who we are, so they will understand your situation and would never want to put you under that financial strain. For anyone that doesn’t understand, they’re not worth your worries.

More often than not, children want to enjoy life’s experiences. They also just want their parent’s presence, rather than having lots of presents. There are so many ways that you can make Christmas fun and beautiful without splashing the cash. You could try Facebook marketplace or eBay for some second-hand gifts or making some homemade presents as well. Try to make the most out of free experiences, such as going for a walk in the forest or to the beach.

2. Self-care is necessary.

Don’t forget to make time for yourself this Christmas. If you need to, press pause on your plans. This time of year can be very stressful and bring out anxiety in some people. If you need to stay in and binge watch a Netflix show, or run yourself a nice hot bath then you should do that. Take a book down the beach, or to a local park to read on your own or give yourself some pampering time. Christmas time should be a wonderful time of the year so in order to make it that way, don’t neglect self-care.

3. Learn to say no.

Don’t put yourself in any situation or position that’s going to make you feel bad. Christmas should be wonderful, if that means saying no to an event, (online or in person) or not having somebody over for Christmas, then you should be able to say no.

Think about the situation that is causing you stress, think about the benefit saying yes will bring your life. If you don’t see any little or no benefit and it is causing you a lot of stress, then it is OK to say no without an explanation or an excuse. There is always such pressure, and this can be heightened with family and friends, however, by pushing ourselves, we gain nothing positive from it. Just gracefully decline. Don’t worry about people about letting people down because you need to look after yourself and ensure that you have a lovely Christmas.

4. Don’t fret the small things.

If you end up stressed and feeling drained by trying to get everything done for everybody around you, pause and stop. Stop stressing about everything. Your friends and family will not judge you for not being able to accomplish the small things.

If you haven’t managed to make homemade crackers or a homemade table display, it really doesn’t matter. Your loved ones will just want to be around you and have a wonderful magical time. So just breathe and let it all just be, you will find that everything will fall into place anyway. If you constantly stress about the small things, then you’ll find that Christmas time will fly by and you would have forgotten to enjoy the moment.

5. It’s the little things in life.

When you’re more mindful of life around you and more focused on positivity, you will notice that it’s the simple things in life that really create true happiness, wonder and excitement. Whether that’s a little walk, taking in the pretty Christmas lights or drinking a festive drink. Focus on all the wonderful little things in life that will really help to boost that Christmas magic for you.

6. Find comfort in your loved ones.

You’d be surprised at the number of people that struggle this time of year. Check-in with your loved ones, seek comfort in them. By having a cuppa or chat on the phone, you’ll end up bonding about the situation. It will give you that warm, cosy feeling that this time of year is all about.

7. If you are currently seeing a counsellor then don’t forget to keep up with your sessions.

Although it’s a busy time of year, it’s can also be stressful, so it’s really important to keep on top of your mental health. This should be a priority. You can then practise the techniques that you have been given by your therapist. This will make your life easier and you’ll be able to manage more, such as Christmas stresses.

8.Time goes quickly.

The holidays can be hard and can bring about Christmas stress. However, don’t forget that it will soon all be over. Try to let go of the things that don’t matter, learn to say no and hold onto those small simple and subtle moments this wonderful time of year brings.

Be festive in your unique way, find fun in the things that YOU enjoy and gain the happiness from those little moments in life. Like when you eat a mince pie for the first time. Don’t let the little things overwhelm you and don’t put a strain on yourself by trying to please others. Christmas doesn’t last long; blink and it will soon be over. Just try to hold onto the own magic in your life and don’t compare it to others.

Merry Christmas!

Try a free anxiety meditation here to elevate your stress.