Unplugged for the Holidays – How to Reduce Stress and Boost Connection

Even when life is going well, December brings holiday stress along with all of its magic. That frazzled feeling can leave many of us feeling overwhelmed, overbooked, and decidedly un-jolly. Did you know that nearly nine out of ten adults say that the holiday season increases their stress levels?

While financial concerns certainly contribute to anxiety, this time of year tends to bring on the pressure from multiple angles. From finding the perfect gift to hosting elaborate meals and balancing professional, social, and family obligations, it’s easy to understand why so many feel like December stretches them too thin. Add in the grief of holidays spent without a loved one and anxiety about politics, news, and world events, and that postcard “peace on earth” becomes elusive.

What if, instead, you could handle the holidays in a way that filled your tank and your memory bank? Unplugging and engaging in mindful, relationally-focused activities are good ways to take back the holidays. Here are a few ideas for reducing stress and making meaningful connections this holiday season.

Connect by Disconnecting

We all know how difficult it is to reduce screen time, especially when social media beckons or you’re trying to stay up-to-date on the news. But did you know that, on average, adults in the US spend 4 hours and 37 minutes on their smartphones every day? There’s nothing wrong with scrolling or texting, but it can easily lead to missed opportunities.

Set aside time to go screen-free, whether during dinner, a family activity, or even the 30 minutes before bed. If you find that the news is heightening your stress, consider temporarily removing news apps or setting a daily consumption limit.

Get Creative and Make Merry

Thinking outside of the box provides opportunities to enjoy quality time with loved ones while making memories. Plan a family talent show, a white elephant gift exchange, or make handmade ornaments together. Of course, there are always the classic jigsaw puzzles and game nights, or, if your family is more active, plan a walk or hike. Whatever you decide on, make sure there are ways for everyone in the family to participate, and don’t let the to-do list interfere with precious quality time. The dishes will always be there, but opportunities for special moments may not be, so take advantage of them! 

Keep it Simple

It’s tempting to want to throw a holiday celebration worthy of Martha Stewart, but if the pressure keeps you from being present with your loved ones, is it worth it? Instead, look for ways to simplify your plans. Opt for a potluck-style meal instead of a 5-course dinner. There’s no shame in paper plates to cut down on cleanup! If budgetary restrictions are causing stress, draw names and give gifts Secret Santa style instead of doing gifts for everyone. Maybe a family vacation or experience would be more enjoyable and low-stress for the whole family than gifts or a traditional celebration. 

Of course, holiday pressure doesn’t just come from expectations surrounding family time. As you navigate invitations to parties, holiday events, and more, consider why you want to go. Do you feel obligated to attend, or do you genuinely want to? How many commitments will land you with burnout instead of filling your tank? You may say “yes” to things that, in retrospect, you should have skipped, and vice versa, and that’s okay. The important thing is to work toward what feels healthy for you and your family and be thoughtful about what you choose to commit to.

Make Space for Emotions

Although this time of year is joyful for many, if you’ve lost a loved one or are in a difficult season, it can amplify the hardship. Taking time to journal or meditate can help you process your feelings instead of pushing them aside to “get through” the holidays. You can also incorporate a loved one’s memory into your celebrations, by watching their favorite holiday movie, listening to the music they liked, or inviting each family member to share a memory of them.

Give Back

One of our favorite ways to spend meaningful time with family, especially during the holidays, is by doing good together. There is no shortage of volunteer opportunities this time of the year. You could also join a fundraiser or organize your own. Another way to invest in gratitude as a family is to consider who you could invite to join your celebration. If your college-age kids are close to home, they may have friends who can’t go home for the holidays and would appreciate joining you. Perhaps you have a neighbor or friend without family nearby who would love a seat at your table. Working together toward the common goals of generosity and compassion provides the opportunity for connection, introspective conversations, and a legacy that will outlast the holiday season.

And a Happy New Year

The holiday season may be the last hurrah of the year, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of time to start new habits and break stressful patterns. As you deck the halls and prepare to round out 2024, remember that most of the stressful things in life are temporary. The ways you invest in your loved ones and the memories you create are what matter most. Finding ways to slow down and show up is one of the best ways to maximize your relational ROIs.

For more practical tips on managing your money during this time of year, check out our blog on budgeting through the holidays. Wherever the season finds you, we wish you all the best as you celebrate with the ones you love.