Ever wondered why the holidays, usually imagined as a serene escape for unwinding, recharging, and thriving, often spiral into an unforeseen whirlwind of stress, obligations, and the relentless pursuit of perfection?
Have you observed that, rather than the expected tranquility, we frequently find ourselves entangled in a web of holiday preparations?
Indeed the joyous season often comes with its unique set of challenges, making it crucial to discover ways to unwind and thrive.
This blog post is your ultimate guide to not just survive but truly savor the holiday season. Dive into the 60 ways we’ve curated to bring joy, balance, and a sense of fulfillment to your festivities.
56 Survival Tips To Get Us Through The Holiday Season
1. Avoid skipping meals
During the holiday rush, it’s easy to forget the basics. Ensure you maintain a regular and nourishing meal schedule to keep your energy levels up.
2. Breathing Exercises and Gentle Stretching
Take a moment to practice deep breathing and indulge in gentle stretching exercises. These simple activities can help alleviate stress and tension.
3. Don’t feel obligated
Release the pressure of feeling obligated to meet everyone’s expectations. Focus on what brings you joy and fulfillment.
4. Keep up with your exercise routine
Don’t let the holidays be a break from your exercise routine. Physical activity is a great stress reliever, so stay consistent.
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5. Take preventative measures
Ensure you get enough sleep and stay hydrated. These preventative measures can significantly impact your well-being during the hectic season.
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6. Get fresh air
Step outside for a breath of fresh air. A short walk can do wonders for your mood and overall well-being.
7. Create new traditions or family recipes
Infuse the holidays with new traditions and delectable recipes. It adds a sense of excitement and uniqueness to the season.
8. Set a budget
Financial stress is a common holiday burden. Set a budget for gifts and celebrations to avoid unnecessary strain.
9. Identify No-No Topics
Be mindful of sensitive topics. Identify subjects that may lead to tension and navigate conversations accordingly.
10. Make time for you
Allocate time for self-care. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a bath, or enjoying a hobby, prioritize your well-being.
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11. Don’t feel pressured to over-consume
Whether it’s food, gifts, or events, resist the pressure to over-consume. Focus on quality over quantity.
12. Cut Corners
Don’t hesitate to cut corners on less essential tasks. Simplify your to-do list to ease the load.
13. Say No When Needed
If an invitation or task feels overwhelming, it’s okay to decline. Saying ‘no’ is an act of self-love.
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14. Don’t neglect Hobbies
Engage in activities you love. Hobbies are a fantastic way to unwind and find joy during the holidays.
15. Let others help
Share responsibilities with friends or family. You don’t have to do everything alone.
16. Join a Tranquil Retreat
Embrace the opportunity to recharge and find solace amid the festive season’s demands.
17. Get holiday shopping done early
Avoid the last-minute rush by completing your holiday shopping early. It reduces stress and ensures thoughtful gifts.
18. Replace Gifts With Gestures
Consider meaningful gestures over extravagant gifts. It’s often the thought that counts the most.
19. Keep support close
Lean on your support system. Surround yourself with loved ones who understand and provide encouragement.
20. Don’t break habits that work
If you have established stress-relieving habits, stick to them. Consistency is key to managing holiday stress.
21. Don’t forget to be generous
Generosity extends beyond material gifts. Offer kindness and compassion to others and yourself.
22. Keep nutrition in mind
Amid festive treats, ensure you maintain a balanced diet. Your body and mind will thank you.
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23. Speak Up
Communicate your needs and feelings. Don’t hesitate to express yourself if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
24. Keep some free space on your calendar
Avoid over-scheduling. Allow for moments of spontaneity and relaxation by keeping some free space on your calendar.
25. Embrace Imperfection
Let go of the pursuit of perfection. Embrace the imperfections that make holidays memorable. Not every decoration needs to be flawless, and not every dish needs to be gourmet.
26. Connect Virtually
If distance keeps you physically apart from loved ones, leverage technology. Virtual gatherings can bridge the gap and maintain connections during the festive season.
27. Reflect on Gratitude
Take a moment each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for. Focusing on gratitude can shift your perspective and promote a positive mindset.
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28. Practice Mindfulness
Amid the hustle, take moments of mindfulness. Whether it’s a few deep breaths or a short meditation, these practices ground you in the present.
29. Unplug Occasionally
While technology connects us, it can also contribute to stress. Allocate specific times to unplug, allowing yourself a break from the constant stream of information.
30. Prioritize Rest
Ample rest is crucial for managing stress. Ensure you get sufficient sleep to recharge your body and mind.
31. Simplify Your Holiday Travel
Streamline your holiday travel experience with strategic planning. From checking travel schedules to efficient packing, prepare for a seamless journey.
Allocate extra time for potential delays, ensuring your holiday travel remains a joyous adventure rather than a source of stress.
32. Explore Local Events
Discover local events and activities. Engaging in community festivities can add a sense of joy without the pressure of hosting.
33. Create a ‘No-Gift’ Policy
Discuss a ‘no-gift’ policy with friends or family. Instead, focus on shared experiences or charitable contributions.
34. Seek Professional Help
If holiday stress becomes overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A counselor or therapist can provide support and coping strategies.
35. Create a Flexible Schedule
Avoid over-scheduling by creating a flexible holiday schedule. Allow room for spontaneity and relaxation.
36. Choose Quality Over Quantity
When it comes to events and activities, prioritize quality over quantity. Focus on meaningful experiences rather than trying to attend every gathering.
37. Set Realistic Expectations
Manage expectations, both your own and others. Setting realistic expectations can alleviate the pressure to meet perfection.
38. Establish Healthy Boundaries
Know your limits and establish healthy boundaries. Communicate openly about what you can and cannot manage during the holiday season.
39. Reconnect with Nature
Spending time in nature can be a powerful stress reliever. Take a walk in the park or enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.
40. Practice Gratitude Journaling
Keep a gratitude journal throughout the holiday season. Jot down the positive moments and reflect on them regularly.
41. Stay Hydrated
Amid the festivities, it’s easy to forget the basics. Ensure you stay hydrated to support your overall well-being.
42. Foster Positive Relationships
Surround yourself with positive influences. Foster relationships that bring joy and support during the holidays.
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43. Engage in Laughter Therapy
Laughter is a natural stress reliever. Whether through comedy, movies, or spending time with funny friends, find moments to laugh.
44. Embrace Flexibility
Be open to changes and unexpected turns. Embracing flexibility allows you to adapt to the dynamic nature of the holidays.
45. Celebrate Achievements
Reflect on your achievements, no matter how small. Celebrate the milestones you’ve reached throughout the year.
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46. Volunteer or Give Back
Contribute to the holiday spirit by volunteering or engaging in charitable activities. Giving back can bring a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
47. Enjoy Simple Pleasures
Find joy in simple pleasures. Whether it’s a cup of hot cocoa, a festive movie night, or reading a new book. Savor these small moments.
48. Stay Present
Avoid getting lost in the future or past. Stay present in each moment, appreciating the experiences as they come.
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49. Nurture Positive Thoughts
Cultivate a positive mindset. Redirect negative thoughts and focus on the positive aspects of the holiday season.
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50. Embrace Self-Reflection
Take time for self-reflection. Evaluate your goals, values, and priorities to ensure alignment with your holiday experience.
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51. Share Responsibilities
If you’re hosting events, share responsibilities with others. A collaborative effort makes the workload more manageable.
52. Plan a Post-Holiday Treat
Anticipate a post-holiday treat or relaxation period. Knowing that a reward awaits can motivate you to navigate the season with resilience.
the bottom line is.
To truly thrive and unwind this holiday season, the secret lies in achieving a delicate balance and practicing self-care.
By making your well-being a priority and incorporating these strategies, you can transform the holidays into a time of joy, connection, and personal fulfillment.
Here’s to a festive season filled with warmth, laughter, and memorable moments.
20 comments
Sheenia
Practicing self-care during the holiday season is so important, thanks for sharing!
LaniAuthor
Hi Sheenia,
I totally agree with you. Practicing self-care during the holiday season is crucial for maintaining well-being amid the festivities.
Karen Kasberg
You’ve offered so many great suggestions to thrive during the holidays. I will be pinning this for reference. Thanks for sharing.
LaniAuthor
You’re very welcome Karen! I’m glad you found the suggestions helpful. Pinning it for reference is a fantastic idea. If you ever want more tips or insights on holiday thriving or any other topic, feel free to ask. Here’s to a wonderful and joyful holiday season for you!
Deanna | Life By Deanna
Asking for help is always good during the holidays. You can’t do eveything!!
LaniAuthor
Absolutely! Asking for help during the holidays is a wise and practical approach. It’s important to recognize that we can’t do everything alone, and seeking support enhances the joy and ease of the festive season.
Emma T
So many sensible ideas here at what’s a stressful time for so many people. I find planning is the best way for me.
LaniAuthor
HI Emma,
I’m glad you found the ideas sensible! Planning can indeed be a powerful tool for managing stress during busy times. Wishing you a well-planned and stress-free holiday season!
Brandi Sunrises2Sunsets
Absolutely fantastic list! I need to remind myself of these every now and then!
LaniAuthor
I’m glad you found the list fantastic! It’s always helpful to have gentle reminders for self-care. Take care and enjoy those moments of self-care!
Hari
So many quality ideas to unwind and thrive during this holiday season. Keeping up with the exercise routine and getting fresh air every now and then are sure ways to relax and rejuvenate our whole system. Awesome read!
LaniAuthor
I’m thrilled to hear that you found the ideas valuable! Maintaining an exercise routine and enjoying fresh air are indeed effective ways to relax and recharge. Wishing you a rejuvenating and joyful holiday season!
Debbie
Thank you for these amazing ways to relax and unwind – just in time for the holidays. I love the idea for a gratitude journal as well as staying full and hydrated!
LaniAuthor
You’re welcome! I’m glad you found the ways to relax and unwind helpful. A gratitude journal and staying nourished are wonderful practices. Wishing you a relaxing and joyful holiday season!
Trichelle Nieuwenhuizen
These are such great tips! I tend to get so caught up in what’s happening around me that I forget to take care of myself. Great article!
LaniAuthor
Trichelle
I’m glad you found the tips helpful! It’s common to prioritize others during busy times, but self-care is important too. Take care of yourself and enjoy the holiday season!
Susan
So many great tips to make the holidays more joyful. 7, 27, 28, and 47 are my favorites, but volunteering is up there too!
LaniAuthor
Hi Susan,
I’m delighted to hear that you found the tips helpful! Volunteering and the joy of giving can truly make the holidays special. If you have any more questions or if there’s anything else you’d like to explore, feel free to ask. Wishing you a joyful and wonderful holiday season!
Miranda Silver
Thank you for sharing all these tips iI thought they were well thought out and easy to understand . Keep up the good work and have a merry christmas and happy new years .
LaniAuthor
You’re very welcome! I’m glad you found the tips helpful. If you have any more questions or need assistance in the future, feel free to reach out. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year as well!