With Thanksgiving behind us, the holiday season is about to swing into full gear. However, holidays can frequently cause stress. Reducing that stress can help us create happy and healthy experiences for others and ourselves.
Dr. Rebecca Doro, a family practice physician at ThedaCare Physicians-Kimberly joins us to explain managing our expectations is the first step in preventing holiday stress.
“We often add to our stress by setting expectations that are difficult to achieve,” said Dr. Doro. “For example, when planning a menu for a family gathering, be realistic about what you can prepare in the time available and what your budget can afford. The gathering is about family and friends having fun together. While good food is desired, it doesn’t need to be a gourmet presentation.”
Holiday stress typically revolves around finances, food, family and festivities. Dr. Doro explained these stresses can be managed.
Here are some tips to manage stress this holiday season:
- Shop wisely
- Set a budget and stick to it, make list, don’t worry about finding the perfect gift and shop early.
- Keep family get-togethers easy
- Plan your menu to fit your budget, ask others to bring food, re-evaluate troublesome traditions and set aside differences and grievances for another time.
- Manage your time
- Your family doesn’t have to attend them every holiday festivity. Establish
priorities, set aside quiet time and don’t overschedule.
- Your family doesn’t have to attend them every holiday festivity. Establish
- Plan ahead and stay organized
- Lists are a great way to reduce stress. Set aside time for shopping, baking and cleaning.
- Find a stress reliever
- Take a walk, get a massage, read a book or watch a movie. Take time for your needs.
“The perfect holiday celebration doesn’t exist,” said Doro. “Trying to create it only increases stress. Focus on what is important to your family and friends and honor those things; your holidays will be much happier.”
Lastly, Dr. Doro recommends that people maintain a healthy lifestyle throughout the holiday season.
“Continue exercising, watch your diet and get enough rest,” she said. “Try to live your normal life schedule as much as possible. Then, relax and enjoy these special days.”
