The Journal
How to deal with anxiety at Christmas
Escape the mayhem of the festive season with our guide to managing stress and anxiety.
By Nature's Journey
3 min read
For many, Christmas is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. But for others, it can bring stress, anxiety, and overwhelm. Whether it’s the pressure to find the perfect gift, manage financial strain, or meet family expectations, it’s easy to feel anxious at this time of year. Try these simple strategies to help you manage your anxiety and make the festive season more enjoyable.
Set realistic expectations
The pressure to create a "perfect" Christmas can lead to a lot of unnecessary stress. Social media often presents picture-perfect scenes, but the reality is that no Christmas is flawless. It’s okay to have a laid-back Christmas. Let go of the idea that everything must be perfect – the decorations, the matching pyjamas, the meals, the presents – and embrace the joy of simply spending time with loved ones. Remind yourself that imperfections make memories more meaningful. Focus on the things that truly matter and let go of anything that feels forced or overwhelming.
Practice saying "no"
It's common to feel stretched thin during the holidays with all the events, dinners, and gatherings. But remember, you don’t have to say yes to everything. Overcommitting can increase stress levels and leave you feeling drained. Give yourself permission to politely decline invitations that you know will add to your stress and focus on spending time with people who uplift you – and don’t forget to take some time for yourself, too.
Plan ahead and keep things simple
A lot of stress comes from last-minute tasks – shopping, cooking, decorating – which can pile up and feel overwhelming. To ease the burden, start planning early and break tasks into manageable steps. It sounds simple, but writing things down really helps. Also think about setting up a budget for gifts and groceries to help you keep on top of spend – and remember, it’s the thought that counts.
Take care of yourself
With all the mayhem of the festive season, it’s easy to neglect your health. Staying mindful of your mental and physical wellbeing can help reduce anxiety. This might mean maintaining your regular exercise routine, getting enough sleep, or practicing mindfulness. Try taking 10 minutes each day to practice deep breathing or meditation. Apps like Headspace or Calm can guide you through exercises that help reduce anxiety. Even a simple walk outside in the fresh air can do wonders for your stress levels.
Manage family dynamics
Family gatherings can be both heartwarming and challenging. For many, certain family relationships can trigger stress or anxiety. If you know certain conversations or people tend to cause tension, it’s helpful to plan how you’ll manage these situations. If you’re feeling overwhelmed during a family event, take a break. Step outside for some air or find a quiet room to relax and reset. It’s also important to have realistic expectations about family interactions – not everything will go smoothly, and that’s okay.
Focus on what you can control, not what you cant
It’s easy to feel anxious about things that are out of your control – from how family members behave to unexpected changes in plans. Focus on the things you can control, like your reactions, how you spend your time, and the ways you take care of yourself. When you start feeling overwhelmed, remind yourself of what’s in your power. Let go of the things you can’t change and focus on making the best of the moments you can influence.
Christmas doesn’t have to be a source of anxiety. By setting realistic expectations, practicing self-care, and focusing on the things that bring you joy, you can have a Christmas with more ease and less stress. Remember, it’s okay to take a step back, say no, and do what’s best for your mental health.
Nature's Journey
At Nature's Journey, we're passionate about helping you to live happier, healthier lives. We regularly publish articles that we think you might find useful. Check out our journal archive for more articles like this. Got a suggestion for a future article? - let us know in the comments!
Content published by Nature’s Journey CBD Wellness is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent any disease. Always seek the advice of your GP or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise, or other health-related programme
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