Between shopping lists, travel plans and family gatherings, the holidays can go from merry to hectic in no time. But while a little stress is normal this time of year, too much can take a toll on your health \u2014 both physically and mentally.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe holidays can be joyful, but they also come with a lot of pressure \u2014 financial, emotional and social,\u201d says Kimberly Sain, PhD, psychologist and training and education coordinator at Hartford HealthCare\u2019s Anxiety Disorders Center<\/a>, part of the Institute of Living<\/a>. \u201cManaging that stress in healthy ways helps you enjoy the season rather than just survive it.\u201d<\/p>\n Here are six simple ways to keep your holiday season bright and your stress levels in check.<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\t\tConnect with the HHC Behavioral Health Network\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n Start here<\/a><\/p>\n 1. Set realistic expectations<\/p>\n Holiday movies might promise perfection, but real life is messy, and that\u2019s okay. Trying to make every moment magical often leads to disappointment and burnout.<\/p>\n \u201cToo high expectations are one of the biggest sources of holiday stress,\u201d says Dr. Sain. \u201cIt\u2019s important to remember that things don\u2019t have to be perfect to be meaningful.\u201d<\/p>\n Instead of focusing on what you should do, prioritize what truly matters \u2014 whether that\u2019s family traditions, quiet time or simply getting through the day without overcommitting.<\/p>\n > Related: Why Gratitude is Good for Your Mental Health\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n 2. Keep your routine (mostly) intact<\/p>\n It\u2019s easy to let healthy habits slide when the calendar fills up. But skipping meals, workouts or sleep can make you more irritable and anxious and less able to deal with stress.<\/p>\n \u201cYour body likes consistency,\u201d says Dr. Sain. \u201cEven during the holidays, try to stick to a regular sleep schedule and maintain some of your normal routines.\u201d<\/p>\n If you can\u2019t make it to the gym, take a walk with your family or friends after dinner. It doesn\u2019t have to be all or nothing. Small moments of structure can go a long way.<\/p>\n > Related: 7 Healthy Habits That Take Less Than 60 Seconds<\/a><\/p>\n 3. Practice mindful spending<\/p>\n Between gifts, groceries and travel, holiday expenses add up quickly. Financial stress is one of the most common \u2014 and avoidable \u2014 sources of tension this time of year.<\/p>\n \u201cSet a budget before the season starts and stick to it,\u201d says Dr. Sain. \u201cIt\u2019s the thought that counts, not the price tag. Think about how you want your gift to make the other person feel, rather than getting caught up in the cost of any gift in particular.\u201d<\/p>\n Homemade gifts, family experiences or time spent together often mean more than anything you can buy. Your wallet will thank you for it.<\/p>\n 4. Move your body<\/p>\n Exercise increases endorphins, improves mood and helps regulate sleep, all of which can take a hit during busy seasons.<\/p>\n \u201cPhysical activity is one of the most effective stress relievers,\u201d says Dr. Sain. \u201cIt doesn\u2019t have to be a workout. Even a walk or stretching can make a big difference.\u201d<\/p>\n Find small, enjoyable ways to stay active each day. The goal isn\u2019t perfection, it\u2019s consistency.<\/p>\n