Beat the Holiday Stress in 40 Minutes or Less

The holidays are a time for joy, but let's face it—they can also be stressful. Between shopping, cooking, hosting, and endless to-do lists, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The good news? You can reclaim your peace and tackle holiday stress in just 40 minutes or less! Here’s what to do and how to do it so you can truly enjoy the season:

1. Take a 5-Minute Breathing Break

Start by taking a few moments to focus on your breathing. Find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and inhale deeply through your nose for four counts, hold for four, and exhale for six. Repeat this cycle for five minutes. This simple exercise calms your nervous system and clears your mind. Don't underestimate simple breathing techniques. They seem cliché but they work if you take time to allow them to.

2. Prioritize Your To-Do List

Grab a piece of paper or open your notes app. Write down everything on your mind, then rank items by importance. Focus on the top three tasks for the day. Letting go of the non-essentials frees up mental space and reduces that overwhelming feeling. Best of all simply remember some 'shit' just ain't that important. Focus on what you can handle and deal with those things. The first priority should be your mental health.

3. Move Your Body for 10 Minutes

A quick burst of physical activity can do wonders for your stress levels. Try a brisk walk, a short yoga session, or even a dance break to your favorite holiday playlist. Do something that benefits you and in return ease your stress and anxiety levels. Movement releases endorphins, leaving you feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day.

4. Say "No" Without Guilt (you don't owe anyone anything)

It’s okay to turn down invitations or requests that add unnecessary stress. Practice saying “I’d love to, but I can’t this time.” Protecting your time, space, energy, and mental health is essential during the holidays to staying stress-free. People will stress you out- so stop allowing unnecessary stress into your life so you can enjoy the holiday season and what this time of the year truly means to you.

5. Schedule 15 Minutes of “Me Time”

Me! Me! Me! Everyone else gets to do it- so why can't you? Take this time to Light a candle, sip some tea, read a chapter of your favorite book, Do something that's fun and exciting to you or do absolutely nothing. Giving yourself even a small window of relaxation reminds you that the holidays are about enjoying the moment, not just checking off tasks, and pleasing everybody around you. They will be ok! Take this time to make sure your ok.

6. Connect With Loved Ones

Stress can make you feel isolated, but reaching out to a friend or family member can lift your spirits in no time. Call, text, or video chat—it doesn’t have to be a long conversation. A few encouraging words can go a long way. But if these are the people that are stressing you out- back away from them for a moment. Give yourself space to regroup and find your inner peace. Gather your thoughts and confront the family and let them know the role they are playing in stressing you out- and the steps that need to be taken to reduce that. Remind everyone that the holiday season is about being grateful and enjoying family and the holiday spirit.

By taking these simple steps, you can beat holiday stress quickly and effectively. Remember, the holidays are meant to be enjoyed, not endured. So slow down, breathe, and make room for the moments that truly matter. The holidays are supposed to be remembered and not regretted... Let's enjoy this holiday season with less stress and more joy and laughter. Family is everything... Celebrate each other! Below is a link to mayo clinic.org which I believe to be a trusted source of impactful information. I wanted to give you higher chances of success by leading you to their topic that surrounds mine, but you're able to see the difference in our point of views but they are complimentary.