The holidays are my favorite time of year! The lights, the holiday spirit, the cozy evenings by the fire, the music you only hear in December (and maybe November) – I love everything about it.
As wonderful as the holidays are, they can also be stressful. Money is tight for everyone thanks to inflation. Taxes are due, you’re doing extra shopping for gifts, and layoffs are happening. If the end-of-year holiday stress is getting to you, here are 5 ways you can take a step back and relax.
Show Your Creative Side
Do you love to draw or paint? Creative expression can be a wonderful way to shed some of your lingering stress. Instead of buying Christmas cards, just make your own! You won’t have to search half as long for the perfect card design and you get to do something you enjoy.
Pair a Hot Bath With Aromatherapy
Who doesn’t love a warm bath as a way to relax? Toss in some Epsom salt to soothe tense muscles, and get strategic with essential oils and aromatherapy. Lavender is a popular choice for people looking for a calming aroma. Afterward, be sure to use some body lotion. It smells good and keeps your skin moisturized!
A Good Book and a Cup of Tea
I may be biased, but one of my favorite ways to relax is with a book and some hot tea. The right tea can provide a variety of health benefits, and a book is a great way to get you out of your head and explore a new world.
Once you have your cup of tea, it’s time to find the right book. Look for something you haven’t read that is sitting on your shelf, or take the time to explore a new genre. You can even reread an old favorite!
Beat Money Stress With Service Over Gifts
If money is the source of your holiday stress, there are creative ways to keep the giving spirit of the holidays going without spending much cash. Remember: a gift doesn’t have to be tangible. Consider giving the gift of your time instead. Are they in the middle of refreshing their bathroom? Offer to help them paint or install some shelves. If they’re parents, offer to babysit for an evening so they can have some time to themselves. Your time can be even more valuable than that item sitting in your shopping cart.
Whether you choose just one of these tips or you try them all, make sure you remember to breathe. The holidays are temporary, and you’re going to be okay! Remember that holidays are about more than gifts and try to enjoy the time with your family.
Do you have any tried and true ways to relax? Comment below with your best tricks for managing holiday stress!