How to Destress During the Holidays Even with a Bunch of People to Entertain

The holidays are meant to be a time of joy, connection, and celebration. But when you’re the one hosting and entertaining a group of people, it can easily become a source of stress. With so much to do planning, decorating, cooking, and keeping everyone happy it’s easy to lose sight of your own well-being.

This holiday season, give yourself the gift of relaxation with these practical and effective ways to destress, even with a crowd to entertain.

1. Start with a Self-Care Routine

It may seem like a luxury, but taking a few moments for yourself in the morning is crucial. A simple self-care routine can help center you and set the tone for the day.

How to Incorporate Self-Care:

• Golden Elixir Under Eye Serum: Start your morning with a nourishing under-eye serum that targets puffiness and dark circles. A quick application with a brush-tip applicator not only treats your under-eye area but also offers a cooling sensation that can help you feel instantly refreshed.

• Mindful Breathing: Before diving into your to-do list, take five minutes to do deep, mindful breathing. Focus on your breath and clear your mind. This small practice helps reduce stress hormones and can improve focus and energy throughout the day.

2. Create a Holiday “To-Do” List

The holidays can feel overwhelming when you have a long list of tasks to tackle. To prevent last-minute scrambling, break down everything you need to do into smaller tasks and spread them out over several days.

How to Manage Tasks:

• Prioritize cooking and decorating first, allowing time for errands, cleaning, and other tasks to fall into place as the week progresses.

• Delegate when possible don’t be afraid to ask for help! Whether it’s setting the table, filling drinks, or keeping the kids entertained, getting assistance can take a huge burden off your shoulders.

• Use a planner or app to track your progress, which can give you a sense of accomplishment and keep you on track.

3. Set Boundaries with Your Time

Even when you’re entertaining, it’s important to set boundaries. Overcommitting yourself or saying “yes” to every invitation and request can lead to burnout.

How to Set Boundaries:

• Be realistic about how much you can handle, and don’t be afraid to say no when necessary.

• Give yourself permission to take breaks throughout the day. A few quiet moments in another room, or even stepping outside for some fresh air, can help reset your mental state.

• Set a time limit on your socializing. For example, after two hours, you can step away for a brief “me time” before diving back into entertaining.

4. Indulge in a Relaxing Ritual in the Evening

After a busy day of entertaining, wind down with an evening ritual to relax and re-energize. This not only helps you unwind but also allows you to stay in a positive, energized mindset throughout the holiday season.

How to Relax in the Evening:

• Calming Skincare Routine: Give your skin some love with a nourishing balm or oil, like a soothing shimmering body balm that hydrates and leaves you glowing. The act of massaging in the balm can be incredibly calming as it promotes relaxation.

• Meditation or Gentle Yoga: Incorporate meditation or a short yoga sequence to help release tension in your body. Guided sleep meditations are especially helpful if you have trouble winding down at night.

5. Keep Your Diet Balanced and Hydrate

With so many delicious holiday treats at your fingertips, it’s easy to overindulge. However, what you eat can play a significant role in how you feel especially when it comes to stress.

How to Maintain a Balanced Diet:

• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps combat the effects of stress and keeps your skin looking radiant. A well-hydrated body can handle stress better and feel more energetic.

• Eat nutrient-dense meals: Incorporate whole foods like vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to keep your blood sugar stable. This can help avoid the irritability and energy slumps that come from indulging in too many sweets or rich foods.

• Consider adding adaptogenic herbs or teas to your routine, like ashwagandha or chamomile, which are known to help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

6. Create a Calm Environment

The atmosphere around you can significantly impact your mood. To counteract the busyness of holiday preparations and entertaining, create a peaceful environment that supports relaxation.

How to Create a Calming Atmosphere:

• Use essential oils or candles with calming scents like lavender, eucalyptus, or sandalwood to soothe the senses.

• Play soft, relaxing music or nature sounds in the background to add to the ambiance.

• Keep clutter to a minimum by tidying up as you go along, which can prevent overwhelm and promote a sense of calm.

7. Don’t Forget to Enjoy the Moment

Lastly, remember that the holidays are about connecting with loved ones and making memories. Take a step back and embrace the joy of the season, rather than focusing solely on perfection.

How to Enjoy the Holiday:

• Focus on the moments of joy, laughter, and connection. Set aside worries about hosting the “perfect” party or meal.

• Capture memories with your friends and family through photos, and don’t be afraid to let go of perfectionism.

• Embrace the spontaneity of the season! Sometimes the best moments come when you’re not following a script.

Conclusion:

The holidays don’t have to be stressful, even when you have a house full of people to entertain. By implementing these strategies—prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, maintaining balance, and creating a calming environment—you can manage stress and enjoy the season without feeling overwhelmed. Remember, a little relaxation and mindfulness can go a long way, helping you make the most of this special time with loved ones.

Give yourself the gift of calm this holiday season, and you’ll find yourself embracing the joy of the holidays with a clear mind and a rested spirit.