The Secret To Creating A Stress-Free Holiday

By Jen Paleracio | November 19, 2017

Holiday could be daunting, just the thought of hustling the busy shopping mall crowds to find the gifts for your loved ones can be a load of stress. Not to mention several invitations to gatherings collecting on your computer, a long list of people you need to send holiday cards, plus the things that need to be done during normal everyday life can be overwhelming.

I wanted to share with you some of my personal favorite ways to navigate this busy, stressful time of year and make this season a lot more enjoyable, less stressful and a time you will remember with fond memories.

 

These secret weapons of mine include…

 

  • Put forth great effort to be present.

It can be difficult, I understand. It’s almost a reflex to pick up our phones and scroll through Facebook or our email when we have a free moment – do you do the same? One way I like to dodge this is to leave my electronics in another room. Don’t even allow yourself the temptation to pick up your phone and disengage from communicating with your gathered love ones.

When I’m feeling particularly scatter-brained, what really helps ground me is focusing on my senses. What do I smell? What do I hear? What do I feel? Stopping and thinking through what’s going on around you at that very moment really brings you into the present moment unlike anything else. It’s a wonderful tool to use to dial in and be present – and is a great tool to use year-round, not just during the holidays!

  • Give up those expectations.

A lot of the stress we put on ourselves this season lies in the notion that we expect things to be perfect. That’d be lovely, of course – but putting your entire extended family in one house is bound to have something go awry. Therefore, dropping the expectations of perfection will allow you to be prepared for when something may spring up. There is a joy to be found in each situation, so even when things don’t go exactly as planned – spend your energy finding gratitude in your circumstances and enjoying as much of your time as you possibly can. Tis the season!
 

  • Find time to move.

It’s incredibly important to keep moving on your schedule, no matter how busy you may feel. Even if it’s just a brisk walk after lunch or dinner – make it a habit to bundle up in your favorite scarf and winter coat to go for a walk alone to clear your mind, or with someone, you enjoy being around. Be sure that you are getting your time outside in nature, breathing in fresh air, while burning off some calories and keeping your heart rate up.
 

Hear are some simple and delicious recipes that makes holiday extra special

 

lemon blueberry bundt cake

 

 

lemon butter cookies

 

 

 

honey garlic pork

 

 
 

easy paella

 

 

 

 

 
 

get your free one week meal prepping recipes

 

 

GET YOUR FREE ONE WEEK MEAL PREPPING RECIPES
welcome profile picture

ABOUT JEN

Welcome to my virtual home. I’m a mom of two wonderful girls and a Community Education Culinary Instructor. I love to prepare and cook home-cooked meals. Cooking and planning your meals might sound like another chore added to your already long list of things to do. Believe me, I’ve been there. However, cooking and prepping meals will save you money, time, and you know what goes into your food. Definitely worth the effort. Read more…

Posted in Blog