The holidays are now in full swing. For all the cards and signs that shout “peace” and “joy,” this season can be anything but that.
According to the American Psychological Association’s 2024 survey, 84% of people experience stress during the holiday season. Needless to say those who are affected by chronic conditions can find this a particularly challenging time of year.
I’ve written a lot about this over the years, and in 2023 wrote a Holiday Survival Guide.l No need to reinvent the wheel so check it out. If you need a quick reminder-using another phrase we hear a lot this time of year- here is an easy meme to help. Lots of other tips and videos follow.
Breathe-see the video below for 4,7,8 breathing.
Avoid buyer’s remorse set a realistic budget and stick to it.
Hangovers: Avoid them by setting limits on drinks or get a Buzz without the Booze.
Hug yourself: Self-care is important at any time of the year but particularly during the holidays
Undoing healthy habits isn’t ok. Stick to routines that support your health.
Mindfulness and movement can both help to significantly reduce stress
Bed-Make time to sleep and rest
Un Attach (non-attachment) to expectations as well as the emoting of family and friends.
Gifting-Limit giving, set expectations with family/friends, don’t exceed your budget
Tips
Holiday Stress: An Invisible Day could help you reset, Experts Say : An ‘invisible day’ is a new self-care trend that encourages people to take time to destress and decompress.
How to make the most of your holiday gift budget
9 tips to fend off holiday stress
Take a Break Pinterest Board. There are probably 600 or more ways I’ve compiled to take a break.
Non-Attachment and the Holidays
