With Thanksgiving this week, we are officially into the holiday swing of things. I love this time of year, but I know how crazy it can be. There’s even a term for it – “festive stress.” So what do we need to do to make the holidays a little more merry and a lot less hairy? Here are a few of my tried and true tips to relax and enjoy the season.
- Avoid the three o’s. It can be a challenge not to overschedule, overindulge or overspend during the holidays, but if you manage to do it, your mind, body and credit card statement will thank you.
- Think of your holiday shopping as an event to be experienced, not a chore to check off your to-do list. Of course, part of that has to do with where you shop – we try to make things very “mellow” at Warner’s, even on Black Friday.
- Deck Your Halls. Yes, there is work involved in dressing up your home, but it’s so worth it. The tree, the stockings on the mantle, the wreath on the door, the garland wrapping around the stairwell, the poinsettias – make your home a showcase of all the holiday things you love!
- Let others help you. Have your friends or relatives bring a dish or two, so the whole holiday meal isn’t on your shoulders. If someone offers to wrap the gifts, cheerfully hand over the tissue paper and tape. Have your Christmas tree delivered straight to your door, so you don’t have the hassle of trying to get it home.
- Whether its weight training, long walks or yoga, don’t take a holiday from your healthy routines. They will help your stamina, counteract any extra holiday eating you do, and keep stress at bay.
- Manage Expectations – Don’t put yourself under the pressure of making the holidays perfect for you and your family. There is so much to celebrate and be grateful for when you are with your loved ones. Why waste time and energy on “perfect” – whatever that means.
The holidays are special for many reasons. Top among them is the chance to cherish long-held family traditions and enjoying time spent with our loved ones. We hope you take advantage of all of the joys this season holds. And from our family to yours, Happy Holidays!