A Diva’s Survival Guide to the Holidays!
It's the hap-happiest season of all. With those holiday greetings and gay happy meetings when friends come to call. It's the hap-happiest season of all.
Regardless of what holiday you celebrate...Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanza; this is the season for planning and giving. This is a month where time managements skills are put to the test. There is shopping to get done, cards to send to friends and family, holiday gatherings to attend, decorating, cookies to bake, and planning to do.
This is a time of year where expectations of ourselves and of others are set high and stress levels become elevated. There are some tips and tricks to reducing stress during this season:
I know this may sound counter productive because you feel like there are not enough hours in the day during the season, but get plenty of rest. Not getting enough sleep will impair your ability to focus, reduce the energy you have to get things done, and impact your mood.
If you have a long list of things to get done, don't feel like you have to do it yourself. Ask friends and family for help. Also, some small tasks like baking cookies can feel huge if you are over-extended. Sometimes it's worth it to get help from a local bakery or grocer.
Don't wait until the last minute. Try to make the season more manageable by doing something every day.
Overspending can create a great deal of stress during this season. Make a budget and stick to it. It's the thought that counts, not the amount that you spend.
You can't give what you don't have. You need to rejuvenate and take time for yourself. Even if it's only a 15 minute activity that brings you peace. You will be amazed what the time will do for you.
Exercise releases happy hormones and reduces stress. Try to get in at least 20 minutes of exercise per day.
Treat yourself to moments of quiet. Just a few minutes to focus on your breathing will make a big difference.
Wishing you peace and blessings during this holiday season and throughout the coming year.