As the holiday season approaches, life can feel like it’s spinning out of control. The to-do lists grow longer, the days grow shorter, and our patience can wear thin. Stress isn’t just a fleeting feeling—it’s something that impacts our bodies and minds in profound ways. But what if you could face this season with more calm, clarity, and joy?
Stress Affects You Body and Mind
Stress shows up in our lives in different ways, and sometimes we don’t even realize how much it’s affecting us. Have you even heard that someone say that they carry their stress in the neck and shoulders or that all the stress if giving them a headache? It's true that when we are stressed many of us develop tightness in tour shoulders, neck, or jaw, along with headaches or muscle aches. Over time, this constant tension can sap your energy and leave you feeling fatigued. In times of high stress our sleep really suffers with lots of tossing and turning at night which in turn leads to feeling exhausted, and depleted. Perhaps you have noticed that ever little things—like a late email or traffic jam—can send you over the edge when you’re stressed? Emotional stress often shows up as irritability, anxiousness, or even feeling overwhelmed by small tasks. Lately stress really does a number on your digestive system... upset your stomach, other digestive problems happen more often because your body moves energy away from digestion towards your muscle when in "fight or flight" stress mode.
However when you are able to relax and manage your stress your muscles are loser and less likely to cause tension headaches, you sleep more soundly and wake rested, focused and ready for whatever surprise the day has in store for you. You are able to enjoy your meals without fear of upset tummies or bloating and feel light and regular.
Natural Ways to Deal with Stress This December
Here are some natural ways to support yourself during this stressful holiday season. We often require a variety of approaches to deal with our stress and I encourage you to have a toolbox filled with options in preparation for the busy weeks ahead.
1. Practice Mindful Breathing
When life feels overwhelming, your breath is a powerful tool to bring you back to the present moment. Try this simple exercise:
Find a quiet spot and sit comfortably.
Inhale deeply through your nose for a count of four, hold for four, and exhale for six.
Repeat this cycle for two to three minutes.
This practice activates your parasympathetic nervous system, signaling to your body that it’s safe to relax.
2. Get Outside
Even in December, nature has so much to offer. Bundle up and take a brisk walk around your neighborhood or in a nearby park. The fresh air, natural light, and movement can do wonders for reducing stress. If you’re lucky enough to live in a snowy area, take a moment to enjoy the quiet beauty of the season—it’s nature’s way of reminding us to slow down.
3. Sip Herbal Teas
There’s something so calming about a warm cup of tea on a cold day. Herbs like chamomile, peppermint, and lavender have soothing properties that can help ease tension and support relaxation. For a seasonal twist, try a spiced blend with cinnamon or nutmeg, which can also lift your spirits with their cozy aromas.
4. Set Healthy Boundaries
The holidays can bring extra pressure to say “yes” to everything—work obligations, family events, gift exchanges, and more. But overcommitting can leave you drained. Practice saying “no” to things that don’t align with your priorities, and remember that your well-being matters.
Tip: Block off time in your calendar for rest or activities that recharge you. Treat these appointments with yourself as non-negotiable.
5. Embrace Seasonal Rituals
Incorporating small, intentional rituals into your day can help ground you. This might include lighting a candle at dinner, journaling your thoughts before bed, or starting your morning with a few stretches. These moments of connection with yourself can create a sense of calm amidst the chaos.
6. Nourish Your Body
When stress levels rise, it’s easy to grab sugary snacks or skip meals. However, these habits can make stress symptoms worse. Focus on whole, nourishing foods like lean proteins, leafy greens, whole grains, and seasonal produce (think winter squash and citrus fruits). These foods provide the nutrients your body needs to stay resilient. Starting your day off with a protein filled breakfast is a great way to get ahead of stress.
Making Stress Management a Priority
Dealing with stress isn’t about eliminating it entirely—life will always have its challenges. Instead, it’s about equipping yourself with tools to navigate those challenges with grace and ease. By incorporating even one or two of these natural stress-relief practices into your routine, you’ll be taking meaningful steps toward a calmer, healthier, and more joyful holiday season.
Remember, you don’t have to do it all. Sometimes, simply pausing to breathe or taking a walk can be enough to shift your mindset. And when you prioritize your well-being, you’re not just giving yourself a gift—you’re also showing up as your best self for those around you.
So this December, let’s make stress management a part of the season’s magic. After all, you deserve to enjoy every moment of it.
Feel free to share this blog with anyone who could use a little extra calm in their lives. And if you’d like more personalized guidance, I am here to support you every step of the way.
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