Handling Stress this Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time for enjoying time with your family and friends, not for stressing out.  But stress seems to be unavoidable when you’re rushing around everywhere, trying to juggle decorating, shopping for the perfect gifts, figuring out travel plans, hosting parties, and just feeding your family. By shifting your thoughts and making yourself a priority, you can enjoy the holiday season more and freak out a little less!

Remember what the season is about.
Try to remember that the holidays aren’t about gifts, lights or the perfect party dress. They’re about celebrating something special with loved ones. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the people you are with. Try to be in the moment while you are surrounded by those most important to you.

Prioritize your priorities
Figure out what your priorities are. Take some time to get clear about what’s most important to you during the holidays...spending quality time with loved ones perhaps? Remember those closest to you spell love T-I- M-E

Adjust your expectations
Adjusting your expectations and perspective is important to simplify the holidays. Stop aiming for a Pinterest perfect Christmas...it’s not realistic and will only leave you exhausted and disappointed. Let go of your unrealistic expectations and keep your focus on your priorities and what matters most to you. Your friends and family won’t remember (or care) if you had five different kinds of cookies. But, they will remember spending a fun night laughing, talking and enjoying your company

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 try to buy happiness with an avalanche of gifts.
Try these alternatives:
* Donate to a charity in someone's name.
* Give homemade gifts.
* Start a family gift exchange.

Take a breather
Make some time for yourself. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may refresh you enough to handle everything you need to do. Find something that reduces stress by clearing your mind, slowing your breathing and restoring inner calm.
Some options may include:
* Taking a walk at night and stargazing.
* Listening to soothing music.
* Getting a massage.
* Reading a book.

Focus on GRATITUDE
Remembering to focus on gratitude can go a long way to shift your perspective during the holidays. Actively look for things to be grateful for. Take the time to notice and appreciate the simple joys during the holidays.
Remember, you and your family’s holiday memories probably won’t be about who got what, or how many dessert options there were. What will be remembered is the time spent together.

Thank you for being family, near and far...Happy Holidays from Kate’s, wherever you are! ​