Wimbledon Oesteopathic Practice Ltd, 9 Merton Parade, Kingston Road Wimbledon, SW19 3NT

t: +44 (0) 208 545 0965

Click here for area map

Email Sign-up:

You are here: Home --> Top Tips --> Beat Holiday Stress

Beat the Holiday Stress

Tips to stay on top of holiday stress.

Here "it" comes…….holiday stress! As families negotiate where to spend Christmas, and millions of us are making the empty promise to ourselves to start early on holiday shopping, the anxiety begins to build. And it only gets crazier from here. Choir practice for the kids, family gatherings at every turn, office parties, treks to the shops, baking...you know where this is headed.

So what can you do about it? You may not be able to control the chaos of the season, but there are some steps to make sure you survive and minimize the affect it can have on your health and ability to cope.


1. Take time for yourself 
YES, get a massage. Soak in a mineral bath. Even if there seems no possible moment you can claim as your own, close your eyes, breathe deep from your belly several times, exhaling the air loudly from your mouth. Do this whenever you need a "moment."

2. Utilize catalog/online shopping. 
Don't fight the crowds. From the convenience of your home or during an office lunch hour, catalog and online shopping can eliminate the headache of holiday stress tenfold.

3. Eat right
Some of the best goodies come out this time of year. While you shouldn't deny yourself the opportunity to have a piece of grandma's pudding, don't overdo it. Remember to eat plenty of fruit and vegies uits to help stave off the winter's bombardment of colds.

4. Give yourself the advantage
Consumption of alcohol, nicotine, drugs and caffeine elicit the body's stress reaction. Remember moderation, you'll be happier and calmer in the long run.

5. Don't skimp on the exercise
...but allow yourself to be excused from the routine when need be. Exercise helps melt the stress away and can provide that moment of clarity in a hectic day.

6. Don't try to be Nigella Lawson!
It's easy to get caught up in the spirit of the holidays with new decorating ideas, fancy dinners and the whim to make all your gifts this year. Be realistic and honest with yourself. Don't set yourself up for failure. Making your presents this year? Have friends help by having a craft day. Forgo making the gift wreath and give a gift you'll know they'll appreciate - a massage J

7. Remember the spirit 
When it's all said and done, no one will remember that the turkey was a little dry, that the sweater didn't fit, or that you were a few minutes late. What do they remember? The precious moments with family and friends.

Have a wonderful and safe holiday season.

[Top]