Christmas could be truly wonderful – if you didn't regularly have far too much on your plate. Here, we have put together a few tips for a relaxing holiday season.
Lower your expectations
1. Forget about perfectionism. You don't need to whip up a 5-course meal you've never cooked before, nor does your home need to be spotless. Above all: you shouldn't expect yourself to be in the best shape of your life and in the best possible mood just because the holidays (usually with family) are upon you. Pressure to meet expectations only worsens your mood and is exhausting for you and others.
2. Don't expect too much from yourself and others. Stressed people with conflicts and sensitive topics don't turn into deeply relaxed angels of harmony at the push of a button. Of course, misunderstandings and friction can happen at Christmas, too. And you should handle them with the same level of ease as you do the rest of the year.
3. Do not engage in fundamental conflicts now. Sure, when the whole family gets together, it might seem like a good occasion to finally lay everything out on the table. But does that have to happen at Christmas, when many people are already sensitive? Whatever you haven't resolved during the rest of the year can wait until the New Year.
Less is more
4. Give gifts more relaxedly. Many adults already have everything and don't need another glowing pepper mill, novelty socks, or a kitchen appliance. Why not give gift certificates for shared activities or opt for donations and sponsorships? Many non-profit organizations like "Doctors Without Borders," "Oxfam," or "Children's Aid" offer donation certificates and greeting cards as gifts. Also helpful: if children or adults provide a wish list beforehand, you can give targeted gifts and avoid disappointment. Relaxed parents don't always have to give their children the most expensive items. And adults can agree to give nothing at all or just small tokens.
5. Reduce Christmas decorations. Does there really need to be a string of lights around the entire house complete with a flashing Santa Claus? And instead of a Nordmann fir that starts shedding needles immediately, would a few branches or the nativity scene from your grandparents' collection suffice? You really don't need to bring home new trinkets from discount stores every year. You can create a cozy atmosphere very easily with just a few decorations.
6. Gluttony isn't necessary. Of course, eating is fun, and at Christmas, it's okay to have a little more. But gluttony can also become truly exhausting and take a toll on your circulation and mood. A relaxing Christmas also means thinking about alternatives to fatty roast goose, chocolate cookies, and mulled wine. You can find a few suggestions here.
Coordinate for a relaxing Christmas together
7. Discuss the schedule for the holidays together beforehand. Everyone usually wants something different. Children want their gifts early, teenagers want to go see friends later, and some adults would prefer to be in bed before midnight. It can be incredibly relaxing to clarify the most important needs in advance and agree on compromises that make everyone feel comfortable.
8. Mutual support. Christmas is often associated with quite a few tasks. To enjoy relaxing holidays, it is helpful to divide them up well. This involves being able to delegate tasks and accept help on the one hand, and it can also be sensible to offer help on the other. Contributing to a celebration together can be a lot of fun.
9. Don't forget breaks. Just hang out and watch the 66th rerun of "Three Wishes for Cinderella." A quick nap or a walk alone – this is especially useful for introverted people who need peace and solitude to recharge, so they can then return to family life feeling relaxed.
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