Photo: Denis Collette/Creative Commons
With Thanksgiving over and Christmas well on its way, it’s time to think about trees, parties, presents, family, eating, and all that goes with this festive time of year. (And lest we get too caught up in the commercialism of the holiday season, it’s a good idea to remind ourselves what we’re celebrating in the first place–Jesus’s birthday!)
Christmas should always be about the manger first, but as so often the case, we shove it aside in favor of something better, different, or more.
Sad, isn’t it?
Children tend to see things in rainbow-like imagery. For them, the colors of Christmas burst forth in fits and starts of daydreams and “wants.” They’re excited about the one day of the year where memories are made and the world is awash in bright, shiny hope. The world is their oyster, and Christmas morning, their pearl.
Adults, however, realize the work involved. We throw ourselves full-steam-ahead into the busyness of merry-making, knowing full well the exhaustion that brings. We tend to forget from one year to the next our pledge not to let it happen again. We smile our way past the mall kiosks and dodge the people manning them. Our one blessed goal is to make it to the big day. After that, life’s all gravy.
But…
But
it doesn’t have to be that way.
We can choose.
We can choose to de-stress when our load seems heavy, or better yet, before it gets to that point!
Here are 10 ways to combat stress overload:
1. Hugs. There’s something healing in the power of touch.
2. A favorite movie. Preferably not a horror flick.
3. Comfort food. A little does wonders.
4. Aromatherapy. I prefer a hint of lavender dabbed on a hanky.
5. A good book. Something uplifting.
6. Exercise. (I know.) But it does help.
7. Cards, board games, or creative fun.Great, interactive outlets.
Photo Credit: Gloson/Creative Commons
8. Adequate rest/power naps.(I’m working on this one myself.)
9. Write, draw, paint, or do something artistic. Just-for-fun activities nurture our soul.
10. Meditate on scripture. So much great meat in God’s word (and it never returns void!)
******
Do you think commercialism adds to our stress level during the holiday season?
What ways do you de-stress when your load seems heavy?
Photo Credits: Creative Commons
Blessings Always,
Comments 5
I take a power nap just about every day and it truly helps me over the 4:00 hump of the day. Loved all of these. I like a hot bath to de-stress too with some piano music in the background.
I try to ignore commercialism and it’s pretty easy when I never watch commercials (TIVO) and I only shop when I have to buy something. I go straight in and come straight out. 🙂
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Jess: Though I rarely seem to find time for them anymore, I love bubblebaths! There is something soothing about a tubful of scented bubbles, warm water, and background music. And you’re one strong woman if you can “go straight in and come straight out.” You’re hired! 🙂
Melissa: Love the idea of de-stressing in a sea of bubbles! As far as the commercialism goes, I think what I find most distasteful is the fact that they start playing Christmas music sometimes immediately following Halloween. I adore Christmas songs–just not quite that soon. And not in between multiple advertisements for the latest and greatest “must-have” of the season. Good for you for being an early shopper!
Bubble baths! The ultimate de-stressor in Melissa’s world. 🙂
Sometimes the commercialism gets to me–especially if I put off all my Christmas shopping. But this year, I shopped early in an effort to simply enjoy it… 🙂
Great list, Cynthia! I just enjoyed an accidental power nap while trying to get my son to sleep this afternoon. Win-win for both of us. 🙂
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Sarah, I just love those “accidental power naps.” 🙂 Especially after lunch.