The holiday season is usually a time of joy when friends and ‘ohana get together
to celebrate. But it can also be an anxious or sad time for many.
Stress levels rise when people try to do too much between Thanksgiving and New Year’s.
They feel pressured to cook the perfect meal, buy the perfect gift, or see all of
their friends and family. Crowded malls, traffic, and holiday spending also add
to the anxiety.
The holidays can also trigger feelings of sadness. It’s a time when people
think of the loss of a loved one or unhappy memories of past holidays. Family issues
and conflicts can also surface.
Don’t let the holidays get you down. Here are some tips from the Mayo Clinic
that will have you singing “fa la la la la” instead of muttering “bah,
humbug” this season:
Be realistic. The holidays don’t have to be perfect or the
same as past years. Families change and grow every year, and so do traditions and
rituals. Choose a few to hold on to and be open to creating new ones.
Plan ahead. Avoid last-minute scrambling. Reserve time for shopping,
baking, wrapping gifts, or visiting family and friends. Plan your days and make
a to-do list to keep organized. Allow time for traffic, crowded parking lots, and
long lines at the mall.
Stick to a budget. Decide how much you can afford to spend. Don’t
feel pressured to buy everyone a gift. Consider making homemade gifts.
Make time for yourself. Continue your normal exercise routine.
Exercise can help relieve stress.
For more tips on how to enjoy the holiday season, visit the
Mayo Clinic website.