As the holiday season approaches, with Christmas, New Year’s, and more coming up in December, deck the halls with holiday cheer and practical tips! Our December newsletter is here to help you navigate the season with ease. 🎄Below are some helpful tips and tricks to help you manage stress, stay sane, and actually enjoy this special time of year. So, grab a cozy blanket, a warm drink, and let's dive in!
The holidays should be a time of joy and cheer. But let's be real, it can also feel like a whirlwind of stress. From the never-ending gift lists to the pressure of perfect holiday meals, the dread of awkward family gatherings, the anxiety of holiday parties, and the stress of travel plans, it's easy to get overwhelmed. But, amidst all this chaos, here's the good news: a teenager (yes, you read that right!) will be sharing 3 Tips & Tricks for Navigating Holiday Hustle. Interested? Read more below!
Holiday cheer, or holiday fear? Let's navigate this season together. The holiday season is supposed to be a time of joy and celebration, but for many people, it can also bring a lot of stress. From gift shopping and meal planning to family gatherings and travel, there are plenty of things that can make this time of year feel overwhelming. The American Psychological Association notes a 38% increase in stress levels during the holidays, while the National Alliance on Mental Illness reports a 64% worsening of mental health conditions in this season. That's why it's important to take steps to manage your holiday stress and make the most of this special time. In this newsletter, we'll explore some common sources of holiday stress and offer tips and strategies for coping with them. Whether you're dealing with financial worries, social anxiety, or just feeling swamped by your to-do list, we hope you'll find some helpful advice here. Ever felt this?
The Science Behind Holiday Stress: Why Does it Happen?
Think about it: the holidays are a whirlwind of activity, from shopping to parties to family gatherings. All this hustle and bustle can trigger our body's stress response. It's like our body is saying, "Whoa, too much going on!" This can lead to feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, and even physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches.
Common Holiday Stressors: From Family Gatherings to Financial Strain
The holidays can be a mixed bag. On one hand, there's the joy of spending time with loved ones. But on the other, there's the pressure to buy the perfect gifts, cook the perfect meal, and attend endless social events. Add to that the financial strain of the season, and it's no wonder we feel stressed out.
The Impact of Holiday Stress on Mental and Physical Health
Feeling stressed can take a toll on our mental and physical health. It can lead to mood swings, difficulty sleeping, and a weakened immune system. In the long run, chronic stress can even contribute to more serious health problems
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Normalizing Holiday Stress: It's Okay to Not Be Okay
It's important to remember that it's okay to feel stressed during the holidays. In fact, it's pretty common. Instead of beating yourself up for feeling overwhelmed, try to be kind to yourself. Take breaks, practice relaxation techniques, and don't be afraid to say no to extra commitments. Remember, a little self-care can go a long way.
3 Tips & Tricks for Navigating Holiday Hustle
1. Talk It Our or Write It Down:
Sometimes, bottling up your feelings can make stress worse. Talking to a friend, family member, or therapist can help lighten the load. But, sometimes it's not that easy, so write in your journey or open a document and write what you feel like a brain dump. Sharing your worries can make you feel heard, understood, and less alone.
2. 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Technique:
When feeling overwhelmed, try the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique. This simple practice can help calm your nerves and refocus your attention. By shifting your focus to your senses, you can temporarily distract yourself from stressors and regain your composure.
3. Year-End Reflection: Celebrating Your Top 3 Wins:
Feeling overwhelmed by the end of the year? Take a moment to celebrate your achievements. Reflect on the past year and identify your top three accomplishments, no matter how small. Recognizing your hard work can boost your confidence and set a positive tone for the new year. So, take a moment to pat yourself on the back and appreciate all that you've done.
What are your thoughts on this topic? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below!
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Looking for the perfect present to share with friends and family, or even yourself this HOLIDAY SEASON? Consider my Emotion Cards and Uplift Teens Today book! These gifts can help in the journey towards better mental health. Great thoughtful and kind gifts.
Thank you so much for reading!
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