Being a mom is stressful. Being a mom during the holidays can be extra stressful! Holidays bring a lot of extras — shopping, cleaning, baking, commitments, and people. The extra people may or may not be positive people in your life. It can be a lot of stress!
But all of those stressors don’t have to tear you down this season!
6 tips for managing holiday stress
Set Realistic Expectations
This is one of the hardest ones for me, but try to set realistic expectations for what you can do! Put your plans on paper so you can see what you are expecting of yourself. If you are hosting a meal or event, how much are you expecting of yourself…and how can you scale down your commitment? Every year, I overestimate what I can realistically make Thanksgiving morning and completely underestimate how much time that darn turkey will take in the oven. How many nights a week can you realistically be committed to holiday activities and maintain your sanity? Maybe instead spending hours baking holiday treats after bedtime you can let the grocery store bakery be your best friend!
Make Space for Yourself
All the extra time with friends and family can feel overwhelming. Be sure to allow for some downtime. It’s OK to take a few minutes to yourself. Find a quiet place to escape or just crawl into bed for a few minutes of rest. If you are traveling and staying in someone else’s home, perhaps you “forgot” something and need to go to the store and spend a little extra time as you walk through the aisles. An even better escape is the great outdoors! A little time spent outside can be extremely refreshing and some brisk, cold air on your face might be just the thing you need. While you’re outdoors you could even try this next tip…
Exercise
I know, I know…that “E” word does not always trigger happy thoughts! But there are so many benefits of moving your body. The endorphins released during exercise can actually be energizing! Exercise is a great way to release all that tension that builds up in your muscles when you’re stressed. And even a simple brisk walk will expand your lungs and get your blood and endorphins flowing. You don’t have to run a marathon, or be a champion weightlifter, to enjoy the benefits of exercise. And as a bonus for your mind, listen to your favorite podcast or some inspirational music while you move your body.
Don’t Compare Yourself
Even if it seems like everyone you know is doing bigger and better things, do what is best for your family and set your own limits. Your house doesn’t have to be most decorated, the cleanest, or the fanciest. You do not have to spend a fortune on gifts. And your Elf on the Shelf does not have to do crazier shenanigans than the elf at a friend’s house! (In fact, you can rebel like me and not even let that elf in your house!)
Find Time For JOY!
Holidays are hectic and sometimes we get caught up in all of the things we are “supposed” to do and completely miss the joy of the season! What brings you joy? A pumpkin-spiced latte? The crackling of a fire in the fireplace? Close your eyes, enjoy the moment, and let yourself relax. If you have a small child, put your phone away and just watch their eyes light up while seeing Christmas lights, or playing in the snow. If you celebrate the birth of Jesus at Christmas, I would encourage you to find a church service to help recenter your thoughts on the true joy of the season! Many churches have special music and kid’s events to help celebrate.
Ask For Help
Most importantly, when managing your holiday stress, it is OK to ask for help if you need it! Moms are superheros, but we cannot do everything alone! If life is hard right now, Manhattan has some amazing people ready to help. If you need help providing a gift for your child, USD383 FIT Closet has a great list of resources. The FIT Closet can also help with warm clothing and coats if needed. If you need help trying to keep your home warm this winter, pay bills, or need some food for your family 2-1-1 Kansas through the United Way also has so many resources! Your fellow residents here in Manhattan are here to help you!
Holidays can also bring up a lot of difficult emotions. If you need some extra support, mhkmentalhealth.org has an extensive, searchable list of therapists in the Manhattan area. If you are in crisis, the Pawnee Mental Health Services crisis line is available 24 hours a day at 800-609-2002 or just dial 988 for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
I hope these tips can help you manage your stress this holiday season! What are other things YOU do to take care of yourself?
