Finding Inner Calm This Holiday Season: Effective Strategies for Stress Relief And Better Mental Health

As we enter the festive season, many of us envision joy, connection and celebration. Christmas lights go up, beautiful decorations show, invitations roll in and our calendars begin to fill with gatherings and traditions. But behind the sparkle, this time of the year can also come with pressure, loneliness, emotional overwhelm and burnout. While the spirit of the season encourages us to give to others, it is also as important to give some compassion and care to ourselves.

The Hidden Pressures Of The Festive Season - Christmas And New Year

Festive periods are often pictured as cheerful and uncomplicated, however the reality can be different with some. Many people experience:

• Financial stress from buying expensive gifts, travelling to social events or cooking special meals for family and friends.

• Family or friends tensions resurfacing during gatherings.

• Loneliness or grief for those who never receive visits or miss a loved one.

• Burnout from juggling work deadlines, social demands, relationship and personal expectations.

• Seasonal changes that affect mood, energy levels and motivation.

Though these experiences are common, they can easily go unnoticed. Acknowledging them help us manage them and support our mental well-being.

Practical Ways To Support Your Mental Health

Set Realistic Expectations And Goals

You don't need to have a perfect holiday.

• Simplifying plans can bring more peace and tranquility.

• Decide what really matters: chose few things such as spending within budget, keeping days slow and calm, cooking one special meal or spending quality time with family or friends.

• Plan based on your energy, not your Ideal Self: schedules work better when they match your current energy and capacity. Ask yourself "Will this plan or activity drain me or restore me?" and give yourself permission to say no when you need to.

Create moments of stillness

Take a walk in a beautiful and peaceful park:

• Notice the trees freeing themselves from the leaves they no longer need to survive.

• Watch the geese and ducks in the lake float peacefully and gracefully and admire the other beauties nature offers.

• Feel every step you take, notice every breath you take.

• Hear the whispering noise of the fallen autumn leaves.

• Smell the crisp, clean scent of cold air, the natural earthy winter aroma.

• Have a bite of your favorite fruit or a sip of a warm tea or coffee and explore the taste

• Finally compliment yourself for this priceless festive present made by you and gifted to you.

Maintain healthy routine

Healthy routine reduces stress, increases productivity, improves physical and mental health and boosts self-control during chaotic times.

• Science shows that our brain is wired for patterns and routine helps create stability. Build consistent positive habits: daily walks or cycling, taking the stairs instead of the lift, finding activities you genuinely enjoy and are more likely to stick to - dancing, gardening, painting, drawing, writing.

• Nutrition and hydration: treat yourself to a healthy diet. University Of Warwick Study (2024) reports new research published in The Nature Mental Health found that a balanced diet ( fruits, veg, nuts, seeds, moderate dairy/fish) is linked to superior brain health, cognitive function and mental well-being.

Practice self-compassion

• Be kind to yourself. It is okay to feel a mix of emotions or make mistakes during your holiday plans. You are only human.

• Seek professional counselling when needed: if the festive season feels overwhelming or difficult, counselling can offer a safe, understanding and non-judgmental space to express and explore your feelings. Seeking support is a sign of bravery and self-care.

The festive season doesn't have to be perfect. It doesn't have to look like anyone else's. The most important is making sure you honour your own needs and give yourself the same care and attention you give others.

This year, make YOU a priority, find moments of joy, space to rest and courage to reach out for help when needed.