It’s the most wonderful time of the year—well, the most wonderful and stressful time of the year. As we put away the Halloween decor and recover from Thanksgiving dinners, it’s time to gear up for the holiday season. While the time is one of joy and togetherness, it also brings forth unique challenges that can impact our mental health.
The American Heart Association conducted a survey on holiday stress and its impacts on health. It found that 63% of respondents felt the holiday season was more stressful than the tax season. As per the survey, the top three things that people found the most difficult to prioritize during the holidays were exercise, healthy eating, and sleep.
Surely, the holiday season often comes with the stress of managing family dynamics, financial strain, and loneliness. During the holidays, we often put a lot of pressure on ourselves to show up for those around us, but this year, the challenge is for you to also show up for yourself! Here are some simple ways to practice self-care and manage holiday stress:
Be Mindful Of Healthy Eating
We’ve all heard the saying, “You are what you eat,” and it is true. The mind-gut connection is part of the reason why, when we consume too much sugar and carbs, we don’t feel our best afterward. Try your best to plan ahead before a big holiday dinner. Focus on eating whole and unprocessed foods as much as possible. It’s okay to treat yourself a little, but try to keep it in moderation.
Move Your Body
We are all guilty of sitting too much—like binge-watching holiday movies at this time of year—and there’s nothing wrong with indulging occasionally. Schedule family walks or engage in games and activities where you can get moving.
Get Enough Sleep
While it’s tempting to stay up late enjoying time with family and friends, be sure to set boundaries for yourself and prioritize getting 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
Don’t Overschedule Yourself
It’s hard to say no to every holiday party and dinner, but remember to check in with yourself. Do you have the capacity for everything you’re committing to? Are there situations where you can practice saying no?
Try Holidays The "Dolphin Way"!
This means not being a permissive “jellyfish” who always puts others first but also not being a solitary shark, oblivious to the needs of the group. Aim to be a collaborative, curious, and joyful dolphin—firm with self-care but flexible with the needs of others. Like dolphins, we humans are social beings, and feeling connected with family and friends helps keep us healthy.
The holidays are a magical time of the year. Remember, taking care of yourself helps you show up fully for others, making the season brighter for everyone around you. Make time for the things that bring you joy, whether it’s a peaceful walk, a good book, or a warm cup of tea. Filling your cup and practicing self-care will only add to the magic. Don’t forget to take care of yourself this holiday season!
Manjot Mann
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Compassionate Journey Counselling
Manjot Mann is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a Masters in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. She works with adults and families from various backgrounds, helping them navigate their past experiences while working towards a vibrant future. Manjot is passionate about supporting her clients as they uncover their strengths and potential. In addition to her counseling practice, she offers valuable advice through her successful column, ‘Ask Manjot,’ where she discusses topics around mental health and navigating cultural expectations, boundaries, and more. You can find Manjot on Instagram at @askmanjot.
Dr. Shimi Kang MD, FRCPC
Mental Wealth, Addiction & Motivation Specialist
Global Speaker, Media Expert & #1 Best-Selling Author
Clinical Associate Professor, University of British Columbia
Dr. Shimi Kang is an award-winning Harvard-trained doctor, researcher, and keynote speaker specializing in the science of motivation. She founded Future-Ready Minds, is the host of ‘Mental Wealth with Dr. Shimi Kang’ on YouTube, and is the author of the #1 national bestselling parenting book ‘The Dolphin Parent.’ Her work focuses on mental health, addiction, and brain-related conditions, offering assessments and treatments like psychedelic-assisted therapy and more. She has received numerous awards, including the YWCA Woman of Distinction Award, the Governor General’s Medal, and the Diamond Jubilee Medal for her leadership in mental health, education, and community service.
