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#14:10 Easy Ways to Ditch Holiday Stress

The holidays are right around the corner, and we all know what that means. Sure, there’s plenty of joy, cozy vibes, and festive fun, but let’s be real for a second—the holidays can also crank up the stress levels. We’ve all been there, running around trying to check off the never-ending to-do list, keep family happy, and still somehow enjoy the season.

But this year? We’re doing things differently. Instead of letting holiday stress steal our joy, we’re sharing 10 easy, practical ways to keep calm and make the most of this magical time. Let’s dive in!

1. Prioritize Self-Care

We’ve all heard it before: self-care isn’t selfish. But during the holidays, it’s more important than ever! With everything pulling us in different directions, we’ve got to remember to take care of ourselves first. Whether it’s 15 minutes of quiet time with a good book or sneaking in a float session at Altered States Wellness, a little time for ourselves can make a huge difference.

2. Set Boundaries

Let’stalk boundaries, shall we? The holiday season is filled with invitations, family gatherings, and parties. But guess what? It’s okay to say no. We don’t have to attend every single event or meet every single expectation. We’re allowed to protect our time and energy by choosing what feels good for us—and gracefully declining the rest.

 3. Stick to a Budget

We get it—the holidays and overspending often go hand in hand. But financial stress is not part of our holiday plans this year! By setting a budget early and sticking to it, we can avoid that post-holiday guilt when the credit card bills roll in. Remember, it’s not about the price tag—it’s the thought and intention that matters most.

 4. Plan Ahead

A little planning goes a long way when it comes to avoiding holiday overwhelm. Making lists (hello, organized gift shopping!), planning meals in advance, and getting those travel details locked in early can help us feel in control and calm. Plus, it leaves more time for the fun stuff, like decorating and celebrating!

 5. Move That Body

We all know that getting outside and moving our bodies is a game-changer for our mental health. Even if it’s just a quick walk around the neighborhood to look at holiday lights, it can boost our mood and help us shake off stress. Fresh air and a little movement? Yes, please!

6. Practice Gratitude

It’s easy to let the stress of the season take over, but shifting our focus to gratitude can bring us back to what really matters. Each day, let’s take a moment to reflect on what we’re thankful for—it’s a simple way to keep things in perspective when the holiday hustle gets too real.

7. Let Go of Perfection

Raise your hand if you’ve ever tried to create the “perfect” holiday. Yeah, we’ve been there too. But this year, we’re letting go of the need for perfection and embracing the messy, imperfect magic that really makes the season special. It’s the memories, the laughter, and the connection that count—not perfectly frosted cookies or a Pinterest-worthy tree.

8. Eat Mindfully (and Stay Hydrated!)

We’re all about enjoying the holiday treats, but let’s not forget to take care of our bodies in the process. Staying hydrated and balancing those indulgences with nourishing meals will help us feel our best through the holiday chaos. Plus, when we feel good physically, it’s easier to stay grounded and calm.

9. Share the Workload

Here’s the truth: we don’t have to do it all ourselves! The holidays are a time to come together, so let’s lean on our loved ones to help out. Whether it’s delegating tasks like decorating or cooking, or getting the family involved in gift wrapping, sharing the load makes everything more fun—and a lot less stressful.

10. Schedule Downtime

Finally, let’s not forget to schedule some downtime amidst all the hustle. The holidays are a marathon, not a sprint, and we deserve to recharge along the way. Whether it’s a quiet night in with a holiday movie or a relaxing float session at Altered States Wellness, we’ve got to make space for ourselves to rest and reset.

Keep Calm & Jingle On

There we have it—10 simple ways to keep calm, stay grounded, and actually enjoy the holiday season. It’s all about balance, protecting our energy, and focusing on what truly matters. This year, let’s ditch the stress, embrace the joy, and make memories that fill our hearts—not our schedules.

And hey, if we need a little extra help staying centered, don’t forget to book a session at Altered States Wellness! Whether it’s float therapy or an infrared sauna session, we’ve got just what we need to reset and recharge for the season ahead.

Here’s to keeping calm, jingling on, and making this holiday season one we’ll actually want to remember!

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*We are not medical professionals, and the information provided in this blog and podcast is for informational purposes only. Wellness practices mentioned should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider if you have any questions about your health.

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