Finding Calm in the Chaos: How to De-Stress During the Holiday Season

The holidays are often described as the most wonderful time of the year, but for many people, it can quickly turn into the most overwhelming. Between family gatherings, financial pressures, travel, gift-giving, and year-end responsibilities, it’s no surprise that stress levels spike from November through January.

But here’s the good news: the joy, peace, and magic of the season are still yours to claim—you just need the right strategies to slow down, breathe, and truly enjoy it. Here are simple, realistic, and refreshing ways to de-stress this holiday season.

1. Set Realistic Expectations (Yes, It’s Okay If Everything Isn’t Perfect)

Holiday movies make it look easy—perfect meals, perfectly decorated homes, families that never disagree. Real life? Not so much.
Give yourself permission to release the pressure of perfection. Instead, aim for memorable, not flawless. Your peace matters more than perfect gift wrapping.

2. Create Boundaries for Your Time and Energy

Between parties, events, and family obligations, your schedule can fill up fast.
It’s okay to say:

• “I won’t be able to make it, but thank you for thinking of me.”

• “We’re keeping our holiday small this year.”

• “I need a little downtime.”

Protecting your energy is a form of self-care, not selfishness.

3. Simplify Your Gift-Giving

You don’t need to overspend—or overstress—to show love.
Try:

• Secret Santa

• Experience-based gifts

• Handmade or personalized items

• Agreeing on spending limits

Remember: thoughtful does not mean expensive.

4. Make Time for Yourself (Even 10 Minutes Helps)

Carving out quiet moments is essential. Try:

• A short walk

• A calming playlist

• A warm bath

• A quick meditation

• Reading or journaling

These small resets have a big impact on your mental well-being.

5. Focus on What Actually Brings You Joy

What are the moments you look forward to the most?
Baking? Watching movies? Church services? Cozy nights in? Family traditions?
Lean into what fills your cup—and release the rest.

6. Move Your Body, Even a Little

Stress often builds up physically. Movement helps release it.
Try gentle options like:

• Stretching

• Yoga

• A quick dance break in the kitchen

• A walk around the neighborhood

Motion creates emotion—and calm.

7. Be Mindful of Holiday Eating and Drinking

Food is part of the celebration, and you should enjoy it.
But balance helps you feel better mentally and physically.
Hydrate, add some greens to your meals, and try not to overdo caffeine or alcohol—they can increase anxiety.

8. Manage Holiday Finances With a Plan

Money stress is one of the biggest holiday challenges.
Create a simple budget:

• List who you need to buy for

• Set a spending limit

• Track as you go

Financial peace can make the season feel lighter.

9. Ask for Help When You Need It

You don’t have to carry the season alone.
Whether it’s cooking, cleaning, childcare, or emotional support—lean on your people.
Community is a gift.

10. Remember the ‘Why’ of the Season

No matter how you celebrate, the holidays are ultimately about:

• Togetherness

• Gratitude

• Reflection

• Faith

• Love

• Hope

When you return to the heart of the season, the stress naturally begins to fade.

Final Thought: Give Yourself Grace

The holidays can bring joy and pressure at the same time—and that’s completely normal. What matters is creating space to breathe, reconnect with what truly matters, and show compassion toward yourself.

This year, choose peace over pressure, presence over perfection, and joy over juggling too much.
You deserve a holiday season that feels fulfilling—not exhausting.