Feeling a bit overwhelmed with the never-ending list of things to do to get ready for the holidays? I had a bit of that feeling trying to settle in a couple of days ago. I've been working at recovering from pneumonia over the last several weeks. Having put up decorations earlier in my overall plan for success, I've quickly fallen behind with everything else with all my down time and efforts to get my health back.

These next few magical weeks of holidays lights and smells of Christmas baking will be over in a flash. I know we call it the most wonderful time of the year, but I think it can easily become a whirlwind of things to do and places to go that equal holiday stress. If you're experiencing it, you're not alone. I've put together a list of practical tips that I hope will help you enjoy a stress-free holiday season, enjoying the moment(s), keeping calm and full of Christmas joy.

8 Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday

Plan In Advance For Less Holiday Stress

Grab your calendar and start jotting down special dates for diners, parties, shopping deadlines, and a thorough to-do list of hosting commitments, decorating, cleaning schedules, and don't forget to include the all important self-care times. Laying everything out really does help us manage our time and is key in getting ahead of the holiday stress.

2. Set Healthy Boundaries

This is the perfect place to mention that it's ok to say "no" to events that might feel more like obligations. It's a good thing to protect your time and energy by choosing those traditions that really mean something special to you and letting go of the rest. Not rushing and feeling exhausted, and instead being present to enjoy those special times with loved ones is where the real joy is.

3. Budget Your Holiday Spending

Another good tip to manage holiday stress is to set a budget and stick to it. Set realistic expectations, purpose to not overspend, and focus instead on the joy that gift-giving and hosting with simplicity without the weight of year-end credit card bills brings.

Embrace on-line shopping wherever possible. It's helped me to get back on track this week and I love checking the boxes on my shopping list whenever the deliveries arrive at the door.

This year's postal strike has had me relying even more on "Santa Amazon" who delivers out of province for free on my account. And don't forget a thoughtfully chosen gift card always goes a long way.

Talking about expectations brings me to another point.

4. Embrace Simplicity

Less is more holds it's own truth. Scale down on gift giving, and choose meaningful decorations that are repurposed and made from the heart. It doesn't have to be perfect! No holiday ever is, and that's okay. We've all experienced that forgotten gift or burnt pie and lived through it. Life happens.

5. Delegate Holiday Tasks

Share the work by delegating tasks. If you're at all like me, you tend to do things yourself. In theory we can, but should we? Sharing the workload can take a significant load off your shoulders.

One of my good friends has her grandchildren come to help decorate her Christmas trees. It's a great time spent with family that brings everyone together and sets the festive spirit of the season.

If you're a regular follower, you know that my two adult children helped me decorate our house several weeks ago. Memories in the making are the ones I treasure the most, and I’m sure that’s true for you as well.

These days, with crazy food prices, most guests are quick to offer to bring something towards a meal. Take them up on the offer and save yourself some time and energy.

6. Keep Energized and Healthy

Tips to keep energized:

Stay active
20 minute walks rejuvenate and balance the busy
A healthy diet equals a healthy mind; indulge in the holiday treats now and then but don’t over do it
Stick to your routines when you can - it really helps fight the chaos
Prioritize a good nights sleep to help fight off the stress
Limit commitments and stay ahead of burnout
Find your peace with your daily quiet time being thankful and prayerful
You do you, stay true to yourself and the things that bring you joy
Stay flexible
Set boundaries, know your limits and stick to them

7. Time Well Spent

In all the gatherings over this Holy season, remember the most important thing is the time we spend together. In those times, don't forget to laugh! My kids bring me to tears on the regular.

We love our times around the table sharing good food - we have some awesome bakers and cooks in our mix - laughing at each other or funny things we find on YouTube. Laughter is the best medicine and might just be one of the best kept secrets to a cheerful holiday.

8. Create A Relaxing Environment

Our homes are our sanctuaries and this is especially true during the hustle and bustle of the holidays. A few things with some thoughtful design elements can create a feeling of calm. Put out those cozy throws and heavier textiles, lower your lighting, light some scented candles, enjoy your Christmas tree lights in an otherwise dark room, and don't forget how soothing scents like cinnamon and pine can be. Keep your holiday decor to a tasteful minimum for a clutter-free space that is a sure way to feel more relaxed.

Stress Free Holiday Quotes

“A crust eaten is peace is better than a banquet partaken in anxiety.” Aesop
“Happiness cannot be traveled to, owned, earned, worn or consumed. Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace, and gratitude.” Denis Waitley
“Stressed spelled backward is desserts.” Loreta Laroche (I like her thinking!)
“It’s not what’s under the Christmas tree, it’s who’s around it.” Charlie Brown
And a final word from comedian/actor Bob Hope "My idea of Christmas, whether old-fashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others.”

Wrapping Things Up - Pun Intended

Hopefully some of these tips for a stress-free holiday season will become part of your personal traditions while you relax and enjoy the celebrations, be they loud, crazy and fun, or those quiet moments of pondering the reason we celebrate. My wish for you is to enjoy a holiday season that is calm, peaceful and filled with times of making your best memories with good friends and family.