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The holidays can be fun, but they can also feel stressful. There are parties to plan, gifts to buy, food to cook, and family to see. Sometimes, it feels like too much. If you’re feeling worried, tired, or overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Many people feel this way during the holidays.

Here are some simple ways to ease holiday stress and help you enjoy this season with more peace.

1. Keep Your Expectations Realistic

Holiday movies make everything look perfect. But real life is not perfect, and that’s okay. You don’t need a perfect home, perfect gifts, or perfect plans. Try to let go of the idea that everything must be “just right.”

When you focus on small happy moments instead of perfection, you feel less stressed and more peaceful.

2. Notice Your Feelings and Ask for Support

The holidays can bring up big feelings. You may feel sad, lonely, or anxious. These feelings are normal. Talking to someone you trust, like a friend, pastor, family member, or counselor, can help you feel supported. You don’t have to handle hard feelings alone.

3. Take Care of Yourself First

It’s easy to put yourself last during the holidays. But you need rest and quiet time too. Try simple self-care, like:

Reading a book
Taking a walk
Journaling
Watching a show you enjoy
Drinking tea in a calm spot

Small breaks help your mind and body stay healthy.

4. Set Priorities and Practice Saying No

You don’t have to do everything. You don’t have to attend every event, host every gathering, or buy gifts for everyone.

Think about what matters most to you and your family. Choose the things that bring joy.

It’s okay to say no to plans that feel draining or too stressful. Saying no is not rude, it’s healthy.

5. Create a Simple Budget

Holiday spending can grow fast and cause extra worry. Try making a spending plan for gifts, meals, and activities. Stick to what feels comfortable for you.

Remember: thoughtful gifts mean more than expensive ones.
Your presence matters more than presents.

6. Take One Day at a Time

You don’t have to finish everything at once. Make a small list each day of what truly needs to get done. Slow steps help you stay calm and grounded.

7. Move Your Body

Exercise helps your brain release “feel-good” chemicals called endorphins.
You don’t need a long workout. A short walk, stretching, or simple yoga can help lower stress and lift your mood.

8. Watch your Alcohol and Caffeine Intake

It can be tempting to lean on alcohol or extra coffee when you’re stressed, but they can make anxiety worse.

Try healthier coping tools like deep breathing, quiet time, prayer, or talking with someone you trust.

9. Remember the True Meaning of Christmas

It’s easy to get lost in shopping, events, and busy schedules.
But Christmas is really about the gift of Jesus and the peace He brings.

Isaiah 9:6 calls Jesus the Prince of Peace. When you pause and remember His love, it can calm your heart and help you focus on what matters most.

10. Limit Social Media When You Feel Overwhelmed

Social media often looks perfect, even when real life isn’t. If scrolling makes you feel stressed or “behind”, it’s okay to take a short break. Even one day off can help you feel more peaceful.

11. Use a “Mindful Moment” To Get Grounded When You Feel Stressed

If you find yourself in a difficult conversation at the dinner table or in a crowded store or walking into a family gathering, try this somatic exercise to help you regulate your emotions and nervous system. While standing or sitting, press your feet firmly into the ground while taking 3 slow breaths, noticing the pressure and support beneath you. Dr. Stephen Porges talks about how feeling physical support and connection with the ground helps our nervous system recognize safety and helps decrease activation in our upper body and mind.

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You Can Make This Holiday Season Peaceful

You deserve a holiday filled with joy, hope, and calm. By setting expectations, caring for yourself, and reaching out for support, you can create a holiday season that feels meaningful, not overwhelming.

If holiday stress feels heavy, we’re here to help. Paraclete Counseling Center offers caring, faith-based support to help you feel grounded and at peace.

Request a Free Consultation Today!

You don’t have to face holiday stress alone. Connect with us to take your next step toward a calmer, healthier season.

Coping with Holiday Stress: Simple Ways to Feel Calm This Season