Stress Management and the Holidays

The holiday season can be very stressful, especially this year with the pandemic. How can I deal with the stress in healthy ways?

Since I’m asked some form of this question on a regular basis by clients, potential clients, and other helping professionals– I thought it might be useful to make a list of creative ways to deal with holiday, chronic, and/or everyday stress.  We could all use some new ideas for dealing with it!  Here is my video on the subject.

WAYS TO MANAGE STRESS:

• Make music playlists that reflect your anxiety/stress level
• Make music playlists that reflect how you feel when you aren’t anxious/stressed
• Actively make music (this one is great for musicians!)
• Participate in a drum circle
• Attend a live concert (extra points if it’s outdoors and pandemic friendly!)
• Hum quietly to yourself (vibrations can help you feel more centered)
• Dance to your favorite music
• Journal about stressful situations
• Write a story about your stress/anxiety and give it a positive ending
• Only listen to your absolute favorite holiday songs
• Color a mandala or create a zentangle
• Paint a picture
• Create origami
• Knit, crochet, or sew something
• Meditate, pray, and/or practice mindfulness
• Limit your time on social media if it’s adding to your holiday stress
• Read a book
• Listen to a podcast
• Take a walk in nature (research suggests spending time outdoors is great for boosting mental health)
• Call a friend/family member (who isn’t the cause of your holiday stress– key point!) and catch up
• Use essential oils to regulate your moods (consult an aromatherapist for more information)

I’d love to hear your feedback on these, so please leave comments about what you’ve found helpful!  And if you’re curious about how music therapy can help manage holiday stress and anxiety, contact me anytime.  I’m always happy to answer questions!