Cutting out the Craziness of Christmas (or Chanukah)
A high-stress time of year does not have to happen this year.
Most people are extremely busy during December. This is a bustling, exciting time of year, but I have found instead of enjoying winter and the holidays, I am stressing about all that must be done. I do not need to be like this. I can enjoy the season without anxious over-thinking.
This December, I am fostering a service dog in training for about three weeks over the holidays, which will be both fun and challenging. I need to prepare ahead of time to prevent stress.
My six tips I am using this year:
Relax and stop, even for a second. Take a breath, grab some hot cocoa or peppermint tea, and relax. Relaxing might also mean cleaning or organizing (if that is relaxing for you).
Do not decompress by going on my phone. I am never refreshed and revived. Instead, I will go outside, stretch, or meditate.
Plan out each day and week in advance by regularly updating to do lists and schedules. If I write down what needs to be completed, I almost always feel less stressed and overwhelmed.
Catch up with a friend or relative by scheduling a phone call. I can even do this in pajamas. If schedules are tight, limit to only half an hour. Agree in advance to end the call when the time is up.
Schedule time for your pets. The holidays most likely mean an upset of routines for them without them knowing why. For dogs, make sure they are well-groomed. Check paw pads for overgrowth of fur, which might need trimming before romping in snow or plunging through puddles. Reinforce good habits with random rewards for wanted behavior, and refresh skills needed during the holidays (such as wait, go to your place, kennel up) by doing a quick training session. Set up a retreat room for shyer animals where they enjoy being, and spend time with them there before guests arrive. Pets can pick up on stress, but your calmness will help them calmly get through the holidays.
Schedule time to exercise. Get fresh air and daily exercise, even if only a dog walk. If you have the time on a nice day, park farther away from stores for some extra walking.
"Christmas gives us an opportunity to pause and reflect on the important things around us." -David Cameron1