Enjoy the Holidays and Get-Togethers without the Stress!

It’s that time of year again … time to spend the holidays with our close family and friends. However, even happy reunions can come with stress!

To make the most of the holiday season, we all need a combination of planning, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care. Doing these ahead can help you navigate the holiday season more smoothly, and enjoy a less stressful holiday season!

Here are some tips to prepare:

Plan Ahead

• Start planning as early as you can! This helps avoid the last-minute stress of scheduling, cooking, and other activities.
• Make a list, and check it twice! Stay organized, and record more than just gifts, but meal plans, and any other tasks you need to complete.

Set Realistic Expectations:

• Life isn't perfect, and that’s OK. It’s also OK to say "no" to some invitations or requests to avoid feeling overwhelmed and exhausted from gatherings.
• Keep an open mind - sometimes the most meaningful moments aren't the ones we originally pictured.

Budget Wisely:

• Set a firm and realistic budget for gifts and holiday expenses. Remember overspending can lead to financial stress.
• Consider alternative gift-giving such as homemade gifts or experiences, this might help reduce financial pressures.

Delegate Tasks:

• Don’t try to do everything yourself. Involve family members or friends in holiday preparations, delegating some of these can prove to be fun.
• Sharing responsibilities can make the holiday season more engaging and enjoyable for everyone. Participants would feel included and not left-out.

Practice Mindfulness:

• Take moments to be present and appreciate the current activity. Mindfulness can help reduce stress and increase enjoyment.
• Do some deep breathing, meditation or short breaks to help re-center yourself in the moment.

Maintain Healthy Habits — Including Healthy Boundaries:

• Stick to your regular sleep schedule, lack of sleep can contribute to fatigue and stress.
• Make time for your usual physical activity, even if it’s just a short walk - exercise is a great stress releaser.
• Remind yourself that it's ok to say "no". It can be hard with loved ones each wanting to spend time with you. Instead promise to visit sometime after the holidays, and keep your promise. This way you're not overwhelming yourself with trying to see everyone at once.

Create Traditions That Bring Joy:

• Establish traditions that bring joy to you and your loved ones, and on the same not can reduce stress as well.
• Adapt traditions to fit your current circumstances and preferences - don't pressure yourself or your family into a tradition they may not enjoy. This can cause unnecessary stress.

Connect With Others and Reflect On The Holiday’s Meaning:

• Spend quality with loved ones, social support can provide emotional comfort and reduce stress.
• Share your deep thoughts with friends or family if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
• Take time to reflect on the true meaning of the holidays, and focus on the values that matter.
• Consider volunteering or engaging in activities that foster a sense of gratitude and giving.

The holidays are a time to enjoy and connect with others. Karmascore can help you prioritize self-care and mental wellness by setting boundaries and staying mindful.

You can reduce stress and make the most of this special time by assessing the various relationships in your life, and prioritizing the ones that support your growth. Karmascore can also highlight negative trends, helping you make more informed decisions regarding your relationships.

When you are physically, emotionally and mentally healthy, you have more LOVE to give!

Let’s nurture, measure and thrive!

By Virginia C. Dori CMO at Karmascore

Karmascore is woman-founded relationship analytics company, a mobile app solution for relationship management and scoring, for today’s focus on selfcare and mental wellness. It’s the first of its kind that tracks progress and efficiency, to build and manage better relationships, measure the moments that matter and eliminate stress. Download our free app from iOS or Google Play App Store, and for more information visit: www.karmascoreapp.com