11/21/2025
🎄 Stress & Self-Care Before the Holidays 🎄
The holidays bring joy, but they can also bring stress due to busy schedules, family expectations, gift pressure, travel, and changes in routine. According to Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, over half of people find this time of year experience feelings of anxiety, loneliness and “holding it all together.”
🧘 Mindful Tips to Help You Through This Season
- Accept imperfection. It is okay if everything isn’t perfect — striving for “magazine-perfect” celebrations can add unnecessary stress.
- Focus on what really matters. When you are overwhelmed (with lineups, late nights, and holiday tasks), pause and ask: “Is this going to matter in the big picture?” This helps shift stress into perspective.
- Respond with kindness to yourself and others. If things get tense, take a few deep breaths. A little compassion goes a long way.
- Set realistic boundaries. It is okay to say “no,” limit your obligations, take breaks, or choose simpler traditions. According to Ontario Shores, self-care during the holidays means acknowledging your emotional limits.
Make sure you block off 10-15 minutes in your schedule just for you. You might:
- Take a slow walk outside (fresh air and movement help stress).
- Sip a warm drink in peace and breathe deeply.
Remember: This season doesn’t have to leave you exhausted. Taking care of you means you will have more energy, joy and presence for the things that matter. Visit or call us if you would like to talk about stress, sleep, routines or self-care ideas.