Ease the Stress

Family is somehow the most amazing part of the holidays and can simultaneously be the most stressful. These two facts can be true. So how do we ease the stress and capitalize the amazing part of the humans we call family. 

How Do We Manage It?

The Common Goal Requirement 

There is so much division in the world today from politics, sports teams, name the COVID subject. And somehow all spectrums seem to exist in the same family. The topics inevitably come up, especially when alcohol is consumed (and people seem more confident in their opinions). 

Amy Gallo, author of Getting Along: How to Work with Anyone, suggests to always have a common goal before getting into a conversation. If you are both leaning in with love and curiosity to learn, then great! But if it is to change each other’s mind or to assert opinions, GET OUT! There is no positive coming from this conflict. 

Personal Space Refuge 

Create a space to get away for some alone time. Even if just for a moment to practise breathing exercises, recharge. Another incredibly effective technique to get in the mindset to deal with colourful personalities (best way I could put it), is a quick practice of gratitude. Gratitude has the incredible power to pull us immediately from cynical thoughts. 

Manage Expectations 

If you know there may be some tension, be proactive. Call someone to discuss before the family gathering. Or set expectations of what the gathering is for, and what it is not. While it certainly won’t offer perfection, it can hopefully set the stage for expectations. For yourself, you can run through scenarios of ‘if this is said, then I will say XYZ’. Remember that the worst can happen but be open to being pleasantly surprised with the best.

14 Days of Gratitude 

“Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.” - Robert Brault 

Read our blog, 12 Days of Gratitude, to find the Gratitude Calendar download so that you have some tips and tricks in your back pocket to start practicing gratitude! 

BONUS RESOURCE! We have put together a gratitude checklist for you!

Download for FREE

Turn your holiday season into a magical adventure! ☃️

This isn't just any to-do list—it's your ultimate guide to savouring every delightful moment the holidays have to offer.

Send this card to a friend that will help them through a mindfulness practice so they can truly be in the moment this holiday season.

✔️ Smell the cinnamon & spice.

✔️ See the snowflakes fall.

✔️ Taste the eggnog.

✔️ Hear the fire crackling.

..and most importantly:

✔️ Be present.

This card isn't about obligations; it's a gentle nudge to prioritize joy, connection, and the simple pleasures that make this season truly special.

Share this card with family and friends, and together, make the most of this wonderful time. Spread the joy, spread the love, and savour every moment!

Dr. Lisa Belanger

Lisa has a Ph.D. in Behavioural Medicine, an Executive MBA, and is a Certified Exercise Physiologist and High Performance Specialist.