During the holiday season, many of us find ourselves caught in the whirlwind of festivities, but for some, it can bring about a sense of holiday blues. There are various reasons why people might feel stressed during this time, such as the pressure of expectations, financial strains, or the absence of loved ones. It’s essential to recognize these challenges and strive for a stress-free holiday season. 

Firstly, let’s acknowledge some common stressors: 

1. Expectations: The pressure to create the perfect holiday experience can be overwhelming. We often set high expectations for ourselves and others, leading to stress when reality doesn’t align with these ideals. 

2. Finances: The financial strain of gift-giving, travel, and elaborate meals can contribute to stress. The commercialization of the season sometimes distracts from its true meaning. 

3. Loneliness: For those separated from family or dealing with loss, the holidays can magnify feelings of loneliness. Seeing others celebrate can intensify the sense of isolation. 

To combat holiday blues, let’s explore ways to have a stress-free season: 

1. Simplify: Consider simplifying your holiday plans. Focus on the meaningful aspects rather than trying to meet unrealistic expectations. Remember, the essence of the season is joy, love, and togetherness. 

2. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to excessive commitments. It’s okay to prioritize your mental well-being and decline additional responsibilities that may contribute to stress. 

3. Connect: Reach out to friends, neighbors, or your church community. Share your feelings and seek support. Sometimes, connecting with others can bring comfort and joy. 

4. Reflect on God’s Perspective: God values the time families spend together. In Psalm 133:1, it says, “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” God delights in the fellowship and love shared among family members. 

Remember the story of Mary and Martha in Luke 10:38-42. Martha was busy and anxious about many things, but Mary chose to sit at Jesus’ feet. The Lord reminded Martha that only one thing is necessary, and Mary had chosen what was better. This holiday season, choose the better thing—connecting with God and each other. 

Let’s approach the holidays with a renewed perspective, focusing on the joy of togetherness and the celebration of God’s love and acknowledging that not everyone LOVES the holidays or family get togethers.  Instead of feeling frustrated with them or disappointed, take time to talk about the upcoming stressors they are feeling and recognize their feelings.  Make a plan on things you both can do to help relieve some of the upcoming stress they may experience to make it a more enjoyable holiday this year.

Let’s delve into some actionable items that you could include in your action plan that are rooted in Scripture to help alleviate holiday stress: 

1. Prayer and Reflection (Philippians 4:6-7): Begin each day with prayer and reflection. Surrender your concerns to God, thanking Him for the season and seeking His peace. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” 

2. Prioritize Relationships (1 Peter 4:8): Focus on the people around you rather than perfection. Create meaningful moments with loved ones. As 1 Peter 4:8 suggests, “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” 

3. Set Realistic Expectations (Proverbs 15:16): Embrace a realistic view of the holidays. Proverbs 15:16 reminds us, “Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil.” Quality time and shared joy matter more than excessive materialism. 

4. Practice Gratitude (1 Thessalonians 5:18): Cultivate an attitude of gratitude. As 1 Thessalonians 5:18 advises, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Reflect on the blessings you have, fostering contentment. 

5. Self-Care (1 Corinthians 6:19-20): Prioritize self-care. Recognize that your well-being is essential. As 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 states, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.” 

6. Serve Others (Galatians 5:13): Engage in acts of service. Galatians 5:13 encourages us, “Serve one another humbly in love.” Volunteering or helping others can bring a sense of purpose and fulfillment. 

7. Create Boundaries (Proverbs 4:23): Set boundaries to protect your mental and emotional well-being. Proverbs 4:23 advises, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” 

By incorporating these plans into your holiday season, you can foster a spirit of peace, joy, and gratitude, aligning with the true meaning of the holidays as we celebrate the birth of Jesus.