Stay Chill and Connected: 10 Unexpected Ways to Handle Holiday Stress with Family

The holiday season can be a wonderful time filled with joy and connection, but it also often brings a fair share of stress. For many, gathering with family can stir up feelings of anxiety. You might wonder: Will there be conflict? Will I meet everyone's expectations? If you can relate, rest assured you’re not alone. In this blog, we’ll explore ten unexpected strategies to help you manage holiday stress while maintaining a joyful spirit with your loved ones.

10 Ways to Handle Holiday Stress with Family

Embrace Presence Over Electronics

In our fast-paced world, it’s tempting to escape into our phones during awkward family moments. Instead, challenge yourself to fully engage with those around you. Consider playing a family game such as charades, Bingo, favorite board game or starting a group discussion about your favorite holiday memories. Face-to-face engagement has been shown to reduce anxiety and strengthen connections. A study from the University of Michigan suggests that direct, in-person interactions can boost feelings of happiness by nearly 35%.

Tackle Avoidance with Open Arms

Discover new connection over common ground

Some people may feel such dread about family gatherings that they contemplate skipping them entirely. However, avoidance often breeds increased anxiety. Instead, approach gatherings with an open mind. Ask questions to learn more about your family’s history. For example, during dinner, invite your relatives to share their favorite holiday tales. You might discover surprising stories that deepen your family bonds.

Build Distress Tolerance Skills

When gatherings become overwhelming, basic distress tolerance skills can be invaluable. Techniques like deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation can ease tension and clear your mind. For instance, taking a few slow, deep breaths can reduce feelings of anxiety by up to 40% according to a study from the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. Practice these techniques beforehand so they're ready when you need them most.

Front-Load Mindfulness

Mindfulness is not just for yoga sessions; it can be integrated into your daily life leading up to family gatherings. Incorporate brief sessions of focused breathing or meditation into your routine, perhaps spending just five minutes each morning on it. Listen to your favorite holiday song to lift your mood. By building these habits early, you'll be better prepared to handle stress when it arises.

Take Refreshing Breaks

If family dynamics become intense, allow yourself to step outside for a short break. A brisk walk, even if it's just around the block for 10 minutes, can refresh your mind and uplift your mood. Numerous studies have shown that a brief walk can increase your levels of serotonin, a chemical that contributes to feelings of happiness.

Set Boundaries with Time Limits

Worried about long gatherings? Establish a time limit for your visit. Choose, for example, to stay for two hours. Knowing you have a set amount of time can alleviate pressure and help you engage more with loved ones. You may find that the time passes swiftly when focused on enjoying the moment rather than checking the clock.

Reviving old traditions brings connection

Start New (or Old) Family Traditions

Reviving family traditions can enhance the joy of holiday gatherings. Consider reintroducing a classic board game, or host a Bingo night with small prizes. These activities not only encourage laughter but also foster connections in a relaxed environment. Furthermore, think about starting new traditions, like a fun holiday quiz based on family or holiday trivia. These shared experiences can create cherished memories.

Host a Friendsgiving or Outreach

If family gatherings aren’t an option, consider organizing a Friendsgiving celebration. Alternatively, volunteer at local shelters, where the act of giving can be fulfilling. Additionally, reaching out to family members through a friendly phone call can strengthen your bonds. You could also set up a group video chat to include those who can’t join in person, ensuring everyone feels valued and connected.

Create a Gratitude Board

Gratitude can significantly improve your mood and outlook. Why not create a gratitude board this season? Gather your family around, providing materials for them to write down what they are thankful for. This collective exercise can foster unity and appreciation. Display the board prominently during gatherings as an ever-present reminder of what brings you joy.

Seek Professional Help if Needed

Sometimes, holiday stress can become too overwhelming. Seeking professional guidance is perfectly acceptable. A trained therapist can share strategies tailored to your specific challenges, helping you manage holiday stress effectively. Whether you need new coping methods or want to refine your distress tolerance skills, don't hesitate to reach out. Contact me for a helpful technique to manage anxiety at rebekahcounseling.com.

In conclusion, the holiday season should be a chance to reconnect with those we love, not a source of anxiety. By implementing these ten unexpected techniques, you can approach family gatherings with a renewed sense of calm and enthusiasm. Embrace the chaos, upon which the memories you create will be built.

This holiday season, let’s vow to be more present, open, and grateful. Here’s to navigating the season's challenges and making beautiful memories with our loved ones. Happy holidays!

Stay Chill and Connected: 10 Unexpected Ways to Handle Holiday Stress with Family by Rebekah Shurtleff at rebekahcounseling.com