Holiday Stress

Holiday Stress Relief

There is no doubt about it. No matter what you are doing for the holidays, whether you are traveling to someone else's home or entertaining family and friends in your own home, the holidays have a knack for creating stress for everyone. There is always so much to do and no matter how many times you tell yourself that you are going to start earlier next year, you still find yourself working until the last minute to make everything perfect. The good news is that the holidays do not have to send you spiraling into anxiety attacks and stress.

Probably the best way to keep your cool during the holidays is to be well prepared for the occasion. If you know you are going to be traveling to a relative's house for Thanksgiving, for example, you need to have a plan of action. First, you will need to make a list of items that you will want to take with you, and then pack those items well in advance. You should have everything ready to go at least a week before you plan to leave. A week before you leave is also a good time to confirm your travel plans, whether you are flying or driving. Know where you need to be and when you need to be there.

If you will be receiving guests in your home, having a plan is also crucial to keep your stress levels at a minimum. You will want to have your house in order several days before your guests arrive. Do all of the shopping the day before for perishable items, and a week before for pantry items. This will keep you from having to make emergency store runs while your family is there. Let's face it - these people are family. They should have no qualms about helping you out with things around the house, so put them to work. Ask your guests to volunteer to handle the smaller tasks so that you have more time to devote to the larger ones, as well as having time to actually spend with your family.

The bulk of holiday stress often comes from relative relations. There is always the crazy aunt, the picky mother-in-law, the rude grandfather, or some combination thereof. If you anticipate that you may not be able to keep a lid on your temper or sarcasm, make a contingency plan for that occasion. Talk to your spouse about the potential that you will need to avoid that special relative, and create a signal. When you give the signal, your spouse can come in and relieve you so that you can take a walk or a drive and clear your head.

If your holiday anxiety and stress is more centered around that last minute shopping, there is a relatively easy fix for that as well. Instead of waiting until the day before Christmas, consider doing small amounts of shopping throughout the year. As your loved ones mention wanting this or that after the first of the year, you can simply go out and get it right then and there. By the time December rolls around, you should have a good amount of your shopping already done. Another option is to utilize the internet for Christmas shopping. By shopping online, you get to avoid the mobs at the stores, and can window shop at your leisure from the comfort of your own home. If that does not aleviate at least some of your stress, I don't know what will.