Lifestyle

6 Mood-Boosting Practices That Will Save You From A Blue Christmas

by Karen Bresnahan

If you are one of those people who tries to avoid all the holiday craziness, you're not alone.

There are so many activities that go on this time of year, and it can be easy to feel anxious, rushed for time and stressed out.

Whether it’s your family's expectations that are driving you nuts or pressure at work, now is a good time to keep your head in the game and get ready.

If you feel pressured because of gift obligations or money woes, you're certainly not alone.

No matter how much time you take to plan everything, we all have a tendency to stretch ourselves a little thin this time of year.

There’s a lot that happens over Christmas, like community, church and family events and work parties, not to mention shopping for gifts.

If the thought of getting through the holidays this year is bringing you down for one reason or another, here are five easy things you can do to ward off some of any negative feelings that might be looming over your head.

1. Make time to relax.

With everything happening all at once, it can be easy to forget some basic ways to take care of yourself.

Just plan on some time to kick back and relax, when you aren’t pressured to get anything accomplished.

If you include relaxation in your days off, you'll feel better.

2. Do the things that make you happy.

Remember to do what makes you happy every single day.

If you enjoy reading, watching movies, playing games or going out to eat, just make some time every day to do what is important to you.

Don't always strive to do everything people expect you to do.

3. Get outside.

Some people get down and out because of cold weather and inactivity.

Try dressing warmly and going out somewhere. Take a walk, a jog or a bus ride.

Move around, and you will feel better when you get more exercise.

Lying around during the holidays too much can actually make you feel worse if you are sad, lonely or depressed.

Go somewhere!

4. Do something new.

Trying something new during the holidays is a good idea because there usually is something always going on.

Check out what's happening in your city as far as concerts and special holiday events.

Maybe now is a good time to try something you've never done before, like snowboarding or ice skating.

5. Decorate more (or less).

Getting into crafts and holiday decor is really a great way to beat the blues during the winter.

Decide on a new project or a new way to decorate your house or apartment for Christmas.

Or, if you are sick of seeing Christmas decor everywhere, you could even decide not to decorate your home at all.

Whatever makes you feel good is the best remedy.

6. Get enough rest.

We all need our sleep. It’s an essential part of being healthy.

It’s too easy to just eat a bunch of junk food and sit on the couch.

Taking care of yourself can mean eating healthier and taking the time you need to rest up.

This is good advice for anyone of any age.

When you are well-rested, you're more likely to be less stressed and enjoy your holiday events with family and friends.

If you just remember to avoid letting your holiday plans and obligations get overly complicated or crowded with activities, you can practice these six simple ways to get through it.