Good morning, this is your Wellness Wake Up Call with University of Illinois Extension.
Many people experience heightened stress during the holidays, but there are ways to manage it. The “perfect” holiday rarely exists. Let go of trying to make everything flawless and focus instead on what truly matters—connection, gratitude, and rest. Here are five tips to help make the holiday season a little less stressful:
- Have patience. Holidays can be triggering for some. Remember that others are also under stress. A little compassion—for others and yourself—can turn frustration into understanding.
- Ask for help. It’s okay if you can’t do everything by yourself. Remember to ask for help when you really need it, so you don’t get overwhelmed.
- Stick to healthy habits. This is a time of celebration, so enjoy the seasonal treats. Remember to start with smaller portions if planning on seconds and to also get plenty of walks or movement throughout the day.
- Make time for yourself. It’s easy to get lost with all the activities going on so set aside some time just for you. Even just 15 minutes can be enough to help you relax and recharge your batteries.
- Be present in the moment. Make the most of your time with family and friends by putting down the phone and sharing stories or favorite memories from years past.
This week try to prioritize one of these tips to make your holiday season a little less stressful.
Thank you for listening! I hope you have a happy and healthy day ahead. The content for this episode was provided by Rachel Mannen, nutrition and wellness educator for University of Illinois Extension.
Resources
· https://extension.msstate.edu/blogs/extension-for-real-life/tips-ease-holiday-stress
