The Guaranteed Method for Beating the Holiday Blues

Beating the holiday blues can seem like a bit of a challenge upon first glance. However, it is easier than it appears. The holidays are supposed to be the best times of the year. Maybe, you are confused or frustrated with yourself for feeling this way. Let’s start off by saying that it happens to the best of us. We have provided a method of preparation to help beat the holiday blues, however, if your feelings get too intense we recommend visiting your doctor.

If you’re reading this and you’re not quite sure what I’m talking about allow me to explain. The holiday blues are a temporary state in which you feel overly anxious and/or depressed specifically because of the holidays. This seems ironic but it truly makes sense when you look into it further. These feelings can arise from extra stress during the holidays, over-committing yourself, or even from memories that you have from a certain holiday. Like we mentioned above, if these feelings last longer than through the holidays or seem extreme, seek help from your doctor.

The Method:

• Set a budget before the holiday season: This will help you from feeling financially stressed come crunch time.
• Make time to exercise: When you exercise your body releases endorphins which boost your mood.
• Relax in ways you enjoy most: Take a walk, listen to music, shop, or take a bubble bath.
• Set a reasonable to-do list before going holiday shopping: This is extremely important during Christmas when shopping is in full gear. Shopping a month or two before Christmas is an even smarter idea if you have time.
• Don’t set ridiculous expectations for yourself: Expecting to have the best parties, holiday cards, and food around is setting your set up for failure. Everyone’s preferences are different so don’t set yourself up to fail.
• DO NOT drink alcohol if you are already feeling down: Alcohol is a depressant and will only worsen those emotions. Yes, alcohol can become somewhat of a stimulant when consumed in excess, however, good decisions never come from that.
• Eat in moderation and eat foods that are good for you: Eating like crap the entire holiday will only make you feel worse, physically and mentally, trust us.
• Stick to a routine: Plan out your holiday so that you don’t run around like a chicken with its head cut off. You don’t need to create any more stress than already accompanies the holidays. This should go without saying but GET ENOUGH SLEEP. Nothing will hurt you more than fatigue.
• Focus on what’s important: Whether it be family, beliefs, etc. focus on the reason for the season and the people you are spending it with.

The most important thing is to know that the holiday blues are temporary and they will pass. If you can stick to this method as much as possible you will be well on your way to beating the holiday blues, if not totally avoiding them altogether! Take things step by step and day by day and remember to enjoy the moment! Happy holidays!