If you think “relaxing holiday season” sounds like an oxymoron, this post is for you. 

Even the most passionate Thanksgiving and Christmas lovers often find this time of year chaotic and stressful. Sometimes, in the frenzy, you can rush through the winter holidays so quickly that you never get the chance to soak up the season’s magic.

But not this year!

It’s only the beginning of November, which means you still have plenty of time to plan a truly relaxing holiday season. To help you out, here are 8 tips for how to enjoy this special time without the usual overwhelm:

8 tips for a relaxing holiday season

1. Create a holiday calendar

A holiday calendar helps you stay organized and keeps you from forgetting important tasks! 

Map out important dates and deadlines:

• Family gatherings
• Shopping days
• Meal planning

A little organizational work early in the season pays off later when you can enjoy a more relaxing holiday season. 

2. Make a master to-do list

Clear your mind by creating a comprehensive list of everything you need to accomplish during this busy season. 

There are probably a million tasks on your mind that are taking up brain space and keeping you from feeling relaxed! Put your mental to-do list on paper and just tackle on thing at a time. 

Here are some things you might want to write down:

• Gift ideas
• Decorating tasks
• Meal prep
• House cleaning/organizing goals
• People you need to shop for
• Seasonal outdoor chores like gutter cleaning

3. Take care of yourself

This is one that some people really struggle with, and some don’t struggle with at all. But if you’re anything like me, when life gets busy and hectic, taking good care of yourself is the first thing to go. 

Even though this is a busy season, try your best to keep doing the things you normally do to unwind and feel good. 

For example, don’t stop exercising, take time to shower, and get as much sleep as you can. 

It’s hard to make the holidays magical for others when your tank is totally empty. So, do your best to feel good, clean, and well-rested, and enjoy a relaxing holiday season!

4. Set realistic expectations

It’s important to be realistic about what you can accomplish. Although it’s tempting to say “yes” to every invitation and buy gifts for every person you know, at the end of the day, we’re human and we have a limited capacity. 

Accept imperfection this season and truly enjoy the gatherings and activities you choose. If possible, try to limit your commitments to the most important things so you have enough energy for what really matters. 

By setting achievable goals, you can reduce the pressure on yourself and enjoy a more relaxing holiday season.

5. Plan fun activities

It’s easy to get through the whole Christmas season without ever building a gingerbread house or making grandma’s famous holiday punch. Schedule the fun activities too, not just necessities!

Not sure what to do? 

Ask your close friends or family members what makes it feel like Christmas to them, and set aside time to do those things. Often, these simple activities turn into the sweetest memories of the season!

6. Have open communication

Maintain an open line of communication with family and friends to avoid unnecessary holiday stress. 

Share your needs and be honest about boundaries. I know it sounds scary, but open communication builds trust and helps everyone understand each other’s limits.

When you’re clear and kind about your needs, it encourages others to do the same. And at the end of the day, everyone will have a more relaxing holiday season. 

7. Schedule downtime

It may sound counterintuitive during such a rushed season, but make sure you put some days on the calendar just to relax at home. Give yourself a night off here and there!

Here are some ideas for how to spend your scheduled downtime:

• Watch the snow fall with a hot drink
• Play board games
• Watch Christmas movies
• Nap!

Downtime is essential to help you recharge for the next activity. And chances are, these will be some of your most relaxing and pleasant times all season.

8. Stay thankful

In all the busyness, don’t forget what a gift it is to have these experiences with family and friends. 

Make sure to appreciate the special moments and time together with loved ones – and you’ll feel warm and fuzzy even when the holidays are over!

Remember, the goal is to enjoy all the beauty this time of year has to offer – without the stress. 

Here’s to a joyful and relaxing holiday season!

Lifedge Digital Marketing

Believe it or not, holiday tips are not our #1 specialty! Digital marketing is.

Here at Lifedge, our goal is to make your job easier. Whether it’s the holiday season or not, we’re here to take marketing off your plate so you can focus on the important stuff like running your business. 

With expertise in SEO, graphic design, StoryBrand, and more, we have solutions to help you succeed online no matter what hurdles you’re facing.

Contact us today to get started!