For many of us, the holidays are a time of fun, festivities, and relaxation. But for some, the approach of the holiday season can bring on stress and anxiety, leading to a range of unpleasant dreams.

Whether it’s dealing with family drama, financial concerns, or simply trying to do too much, holiday dreams can leave us feeling drained and overwhelmed. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce these stressful dreams and cope with the holiday season more effectively.

The Root Causes of Holiday Stress

Before we can tackle how to cope with stress during the holidays, it’s important to understand what causes it in the first place. Some common sources of holiday stress include:.

Family Tension

Family dynamics can be complicated, and when you mix in the added pressures of holiday expectations, it’s easy to see how tension can arise.

Whether it’s a long-standing feud, differing political views, or just the stress of travel and being away from home, family tension is a common source of holiday stress.

Financial Concerns

The holidays can be expensive, from buying gifts to traveling to see loved ones. For many people, money is already tight, and the added cost of the holidays can be a major source of stress.

Overcommitment

Between holiday parties, family gatherings, and work functions, the holiday season can quickly become overwhelming. With so much going on, it’s easy to overcommit and find yourself exhausted and stressed out.

Coping Strategies for Stressful Holiday Dreams

Now that we understand some of the root causes of holiday stress, we can tackle specific strategies for reducing that stress and coping with the pressure of the holiday season.

1. Set Realistic Expectations

Part of the pressure of the holidays comes from unrealistic expectations. We want everything to be perfect and can become anxious when it falls short of that ideal.

Setting realistic expectations for ourselves and those around us can go a long way in reducing holiday stress.

2. Learn to Say No

Saying no can be difficult, especially during a season when so many people are asking for your time and attention. But learning to say no is a crucial part of reducing holiday stress.

Know your limits and be willing to say no to things that will add to your already busy schedule.

3. Practice Self-Care

The holidays can be draining, which is why it’s important to prioritize self-care. Make time for exercise, sleep, and activities that bring you joy.

Whether it’s a morning yoga class or a relaxing bubble bath, taking care of yourself will help you better cope with the pressure of the holidays.

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4. Connect with Supportive People

Whether it’s friends, family members, or a support group, connecting with people who can offer support and understanding during the holidays can be a great stress-reducer.

Make time for coffee dates or phone calls with supportive loved ones to feel more connected during a stressful season.

5. Set Boundaries for Self-Care

It’s easy to get swept up in the holiday season and forget about our own needs. Setting boundaries for self-care can be a great way to reduce stress and prioritize your own well-being.

Whether it’s scheduling a weekly massage or committing to a daily meditation practice, setting boundaries will help you feel more in control during the holidays.

6. Talk to a Professional

If you’re finding it difficult to cope with holiday stress, consider talking to a mental health professional. A therapist or counselor can offer support and practical strategies for managing stress during the holidays.

7. Find Ways to Give Back

While the holiday season can bring on stress, it’s also a time for generosity and giving back.

Whether it’s donating to a charity, volunteering at a shelter, or simply doing something kind for a neighbor, finding ways to give back can help shift your focus from stress to gratitude.

Social media can be a wonderful way to connect with loved ones during the holidays, but it can also contribute to stress and anxiety. Taking breaks from social media can be a helpful way to reduce the amount of holiday-related pressure you experience.

9. Embrace Imperfection

Perfectionism can be a major source of holiday stress. Embracing imperfection, on the other hand, can help you feel more relaxed and content with what’s happening around you.

Whether it’s a less-than-perfect holiday meal or a gift that’s not quite right, remember that imperfection is a natural part of life, and it’s okay to let go of expectations.

10. Practice Gratitude

Finally, practicing gratitude can be a powerful antidote to holiday stress.

Whether it’s writing in a gratitude journal or simply taking time to appreciate the people and experiences around you, cultivating a sense of thankfulness can help shift your focus away from stress and towards gratitude.