It always seems to sneak up quickly and this year was no exception – the holiday season is in full swing and that familiar sense of overwhelm has crept in, along with our extra-long to-do lists. Before we throw all our healthy habits and sanity to the wind and drown ourselves in another cup of eggnog, let’s take a pause and mindfully plan out how to truly make this the most wonderful time of the year. 

First, let’s recognize that this year is bound to be different than years past. Last year, we weren’t able to gather and celebrate the same way we used to, so there may be extra pressure (or desire) to put on the most special holiday celebrations ever. So often our desire to achieve the perfect, most instagrammable holiday leaves us exhausted, cranky, depleted and broke. Plus, we’re still dealing with lingering effects and concerns of the pandemic. How might we do things a bit differently this year that honors our traditions but could actually bring us comfort and joy in a time when we really need it? I have a few ideas.

Identify Triggers. What is it about the season that steals your holiday cheer? Sending out the cards? Finding the perfect gifts? Hosting the extended family or traveling to visit everyone? There are so many culprits! Make a list of all the things you are expected to do this season, then identify which ones bring you joy and which ones feel more like extra weight to bear. Baking your Grandma’s favorite cookies may bring about fond memories OR it may be the thing that puts you over the edge. Look through your whole list of holiday chores and determine if some things on that list could be modified or taken off completely. Ask your family what matters to them. Perhaps there are backbreaking traditions you’re still doing that could be left behind, or family members could happily take some of them on. Remember, we’re working towards a joyful season, not a burdened one.

Approach Gift Giving Differently. The pressure to buy the perfect gifts can be overwhelming and taxing on our bank accounts. If this is something that adds to your stress levels, get creative and try something different. Instead of giving Dad another tie or Grandma an extra set of pajamas, why not give them the gift of time spent together? Tickets to a sporting event or performance, brunch at a special place or a day at one of the many museums we have nearby followed by lunch are gifts to give that are meaningful and provide precious time together in the new year. (They are also easier to wrap!) In my opinion, experiences make some of the best gifts.

Practice Radical Self-Care. With all the extra demands of the season, now is the time to pay special attention to your needs so you can enjoy the holidays fully. Carve out quiet moments to relax. Schedule walks with a friend. Light a candle and play soft music. Go to bed early. Fuel your body with a big salad or nourishing bowls of soup. (My current favorite salad recipe is here.) Take a yoga class. (Classes at Grace are offered both in-studio and livestream, so you don’t even have to leave your house!) Do the small things that fill your cup, not deplete it. Make a list of the things that make you feel calm and cared-for and prioritize them. 

I understand that we cannot realistically remove all of the stressors of the holidays, but we can aim to limit the things that create stress and focus on what truly brings us the most joy. Wishing you and your loved ones the most wonderful holiday season filled with favorite traditions, quality time spent together, and a generous dose of self-care to ease into 2022. Happy, Healthy Holidays to all!