I'm still thankful: How i plan to de-stress during the holiday season

By: Hollie Kowalski
Encompass Outreach Coordinator


The holiday season is once again, upon me… uh, I mean us. I am an enneagram 2, wing 3. If you’ve never done an enneagram study, I highly recommend it. This study helped me learn so much about myself and my loved ones, why we are the way we are, and how to be healthier versions of ourselves. As a 2 wing 3 combination, I’m described as “the hostess,” and boy do I love hosting and entertaining others! Making our home festive, our gatherings joyous, and the season itself “perfect,” has been my goal in the past…even if it makes my Christmas, not so merry. Ha!
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I tend to put much undo pressure on myself during this season while trying to achieve perfection in every little Christmas thing, but this season I’ve decided to follow these guidelines to a less stressful and more peaceful holiday season: 

• Pray- We’re not meant to carry our burdens alone. Ask for His help to remember the  true reason for the season and keep that stress in its place.
• Make a Gratitude List- Being stressed often keeps us from appreciating the little things or recognizing the things we’re thankful for. A gratitude list will help to combat this.
• Take a walk- Either get your blood pumping and burn off some steam or go for a casual walk to enjoy the fresh air. This will help clear your mind and bring your stress level down.
• Reward Yourself- Periodically during your day or after completing a task, reward yourself. My rewards will consist of an iced Christmas flavored coffee, some Pinterest time, maybe a Christmas cookie or two, and some Christmas music!
• Be Quiet- Take some time in silence to enjoy your Christmas tree and surrounding decorations. Read the Christmas story. Let the warmth and meaning of the season, fill your cup.
• Create a Wind Down Routine- I don’t know about you, but when I’m stressed, I have trouble sleeping.  To alleviate those sleepless nights, a few times a week, I’m going to follow a wind down routine which will consist of a favorite Christmas movie with my hubby, a cup of decaf coffee or hot chocolate, then a bubble bath, and a detoxing face scrub.

 
Are you already feeling overwhelmed by the stressors of the season?  Are these stressors affecting your relationships with family and friends? If you’re looking for guidance and growth in your relationship or parenting abilities, get in touch with a knowledgeable and sincere advocate or coach at Encompass Connection center by following the links below. 

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