Holidays can be stressful !
Michael Mutz conducted a large-scale survey in 11 countries in the week before Christmas, the week after Christmas, and in another month of the year. He found that subjective well-being decreased before Christmas, returned toward usual levels in the December 27 – 31 period, and was at the highest level in the non-Christmas season.
The reduced well-being was a result of feeling time pressure, social obligations, and financial concerns.
Does this sound like you?
He wondered if perhaps the pre-Christmas hustle, rather than the Christmas holiday itself, caused the short-term decline in well-being. What has been your experience?
This December we may be feeling additional emotional impacts from stressful news of wars, climate change, and economic pressures.
Other researchers have reported that holiday stress is amplified by things like:
- loneliness
- grief
- nostalgia
- fatigue
- anxiety
- depression
- changes in routine
- strained family relationships
- financial stresses
- feeling a disconnect between how things really are, and how it’s advertised they should be
- commercialization
- negative self-evaluation
- unrealistic expectations
To diminish the negative stress, especially in these days leading up to Christmas, consider these strategies :
Take a moment to reflect on what the holidays mean to you.
Under the surface of glitter and presents, what do you really treasure or find the most meaningful about the holidays?
Centre your time and actions around these.
Tailor the holidays to you. Focus on what is meaningful to you and celebrate in your own way.
Be choosy. If you have a long to-do list, you may not be able to do everything. Set priorities. Decrease the number of items on the list. Delegate. It’s okay to say no.
Give yourself realistic expectations.
If something is bothering you, communicate with family and friends or seek support from professional counsellors. Asking for the support you need shows great strength.
Slow down. Schedule down time.
The Canadian Institute of Stress reports that having 20 minutes every day just for you can decrease the stress up to 50%!
Keep your perspective.
Remember the steps you’re taking to connect with what is important to you. Appreciate the things you’re grateful for each day.
Go with the flow.
Get outdoors.
Protect your sleep.
Eat sweets in moderation.
Exercise.
Laugh.
Have fun.
Relax your body.
Remember – when we feel we don’t have time to practice some calming/relaxation, that is when we need it the most.
Give yourself permission to look after yourself
and to focus on the meaningful things.
What is your plan to minimize the stressful pre-holiday hustle?
For effective, practical stress management strategies that enhance health and performance
check out the Stress Management & High Performance Clinic programs
at https://www.SelfRegulationSkills.ca.
Kathy Somers, R.Kin, BCB
Stress Smart 