STRIKING A BALANCE: CALM NOT CHAOS

The holiday season is a time of celebration, connection, and giving, but it can also bring stress, exhaustion, and overwhelm. Keeping a little focus on staying present in the moment can make a significant impact on your overall mindset. With some intentional planning and mindfulness, you can enjoy the holidays while keeping the PEACE in your heart.  

Here are our top tips to finding the calm through the chaos:  

1. Set Realistic Expectations 

The holidays are often jammed packed with too much to focus on at once. Family traditions, decorating, gift buying and an unrealistic social calendar can easily zap your spirit. Be okay with saying no and prioritize what matters most to you. Let go of perfection and embrace good enough. 

2. Plan Ahead 

Create a holiday calendar and don’t leave anything out. Includes key dates for events but also time allotted for shopping, cooking, and cleaning. Spread out tasks like gift wrapping or meal prep to avoid last-minute stress. Delegate responsibilities to family members to lighten the load. 

3. Budget Mindfully 

Financial strain is a top source of stress during the holidays and often continues well after the season is over. Set a budget for gifts, travel, and activities, and stick to it. Remember, meaningful gifts and gestures don’t have to be expensive. Time spent on an experience, heartfelt notes, or a homemade treat will leave a lasting impression. 

4. Practice Gratitude 

Amid the hustle, take time to reflect on what you’re grateful for. Start or end each day by jotting down three things you are blessed to have. Gratitude can shift your perspective and keep negative emotions at bay. 

5. Prioritize Self-Care 

Your well-being is essential. During busy days this month, you need it more than ever.  Make time for activities that replenish you mentally and physically. Take your morning walk, read a book, slow down and breathe. Don’t neglect the things that truly bring you peace and calm like sleep, exercise, and balanced eating. 

6. Focus on Connection, Not Perfection 

Holiday magic comes from meaningful moments, not flawless execution. Focusing on making everything perfect pulls your focus away from the present. Whether it’s sharing stories over dinner or watching a holiday movie, focus on connecting with loved ones rather than the perfect meal, decorations, pictures, or gifts. 

7. Create a Calm Environment 

Set a serene tone with soothing music, dim lighting, or seasonal scents like pine or cinnamon. A peaceful home can help counteract external holiday chaos. 

8. Be Mindful of Social Media 

Scrolling through picture-perfect holiday posts can lead to comparison and anxiety. Stop and picture in your mind, the reality of that picture perfect scene once the camera is off. Limit your time online, and remember that behind-the-scenes, everyone faces chaos and challenges during the holidays. 

9. Plan for Downtime 

Amidst the craziness, carve out moments of quiet. Enjoy a cup of tea, journal, or take a deep breath. Use mindfulness techniques like focusing on your breath or grounding yourself in the present. 

10. Seek Support When Needed 

Don’t expect happiness and joy at all times. It is okay to feel sad, tired, or anxious at times. Accept whatever feelings arise but work to not stay with them. The holidays can evoke complex emotions. If you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to talk to a friend, join a support group, or reach out to a therapist. 

The holiday season doesn’t have to be stressful. By being intentional and prioritizing your well-being, you can create a season that’s joyful and fulfilling. After all, the greatest gift you can give yourself and others is your presence and PEACE of mind.