For many, holiday stress manifests in both the physical and financial realm, but the holiday season doesn’t have to mean putting yourself on the back burner. Remember that the thing that your family will need most throughout the holiday season is you. If you’re not taking care of yourself, eventually, this will catch up with you and will very likely put your holiday plans into a tailspin.

When trying to manage everything on your plate as the holiday season approaches, it is essential to realize that there will be no holiday without you. For this reason, organization is the first key to hanging onto your health and sanity throughout the holiday season. Lists and a game plan can help keep you focused and on track without feeling as if you are losing your mind.

Breaks are also an essential key to staying healthy throughout the holiday season, and while you are scheduling a time to shop, wrap, or bake, make sure that you’re planning a time to relax. Incorporating meditation, a facial, massage, or even lunch with friends can be the best way to ensure that you’re putting yourself on the list and getting the nurturing you need to get things done.

Keeping up with your regular life is also important, so be sure you’re keeping up with your regular eating and sleeping routine. During the holidays, most men and women eat more poorly, which is also why many find themselves committing to a New Year’s resolution of losing weight. Sugar is also something that people tend to overindulge in simply because they are so tired and stressed that they think they need to gorge on sugar and starchy foods.

The holidays can be a wonderful time of year and great fun. However, it is imperative to realize that it will not be any fun if you become ill just in time for the holiday. Taking time out from your busy holiday schedule to be sure that you’re taking care of yourself is by far one of the most important things you can do. Remember, it is better to skip a few tasks or take a couple of shortcuts than lose your health for the holiday season due to holiday stress.

If you or someone you care about is confronting issues this holiday season, please contact Good Therapy’s team of licensed professional counselors and therapists today at 630-473-3971.