The hustle and bustle of the festive season, from home renovations to cleaning and baking goodies, can take a physical and emotional toll.

Even a joyous time like Christmas can cause stress and anxiety for Jamaicans due to unmet expectations, comparison to others, and the added pressure of gift buying and family gatherings.

This week, for our Wellness Watch feature, we offer practical ways to manage stress during the festive season.

Take a Break

Boost your resilience this festive season by taking breaks to relax and rejuvenate. There are numerous benefits, such as better stress management, improved mood, better physical health, and enhanced creativity. Whether it’s taking a nap or enjoying something you love, breaks are essential to make the festive season more enjoyable and less tiresome.

Practice Self-Care

Self-care should be a top priority this season. You can’t spread joy to others if you don’t first take care of yourself. Self-care means establishing habits to promote your health and manage illness. To practise self-care, consider going outdoors, getting a massage, doing something creative, or engaging in activities that bring you joy.

Share the Load

The festive season often brings a long list of tasks, from cleaning to cooking and shopping. But you don’t have to do it all alone. Share the load by letting others help with the preparations. This not only eases your stress but ensures everyone enjoys the festive season together.

Practice Deep Breathing Exercises

Deep breathing exercises are one of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce stress. Just a few minutes of focused breathing can improve your sleep, reduce anxiety, and boost mental and emotional well-being. Incorporate some simple deep breathing exercises into your daily routine this season for calm and clarity.

Time Management

Effective time management can also help reduce stress. Plan ahead and make a list of necessary tasks leading up to the big day. Set clear deadlines for when each task should be completed, and revisit your list daily to stay on track. Proper time management helps ensure you can complete everything without feeling overwhelmed.