Staying Calm During the Holiday Season: My Top Tips for Keeping Your Peace

The holiday season is a time of joy, connection, and celebration—but it can also be a whirlwind of social gatherings, to-do lists, and indulgences that can leave us feeling overwhelmed. With the hustle and bustle of the festive period, it’s essential to prioritize your own well-being and keep stress at bay. Here are my top tips for maintaining calm during the holiday rush:

1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

With all the rich foods, bubbly drinks, and late nights, it’s easy to forget the importance of staying hydrated. Make it a point to drink plenty of water—ideally even more than your usual intake—to keep your energy levels steady and help your body manage the extra load. Proper hydration supports everything from digestion to mood balance, so don’t skip this simple yet powerful tip.

2. Mindful Eating: Embrace the 80% Full Rule

The holiday season is full of delicious temptations, and it’s only natural to indulge. However, to avoid that post-party food coma, try practicing the “80% full” rule—stopping before you reach the point of uncomfortable fullness. Tuning in to your body’s cues can help you enjoy the festive fare without overindulging and feeling sluggish afterward.

3. Stick to Your Rituals, Even if Adjusted

The festive season can throw your regular schedule out of whack, but that doesn’t mean you have to abandon your self-care routines. No matter how late the nights get, I make it a point to do my meditation when I get into bed—even if it’s just a quick 5-minute session. Keeping small habits in place, like skincare, reading, or stretching, helps maintain a sense of normalcy and calm amidst the chaos.

4. Give the Gift of Health and Love

Gifting can be one of the most stressful parts of the season, but it doesn’t have to be. Focus on gifts that nurture well-being and express genuine care. A beautiful, natural soap, a fresh bouquet of flowers, or a heartfelt conversation can mean more than a flashy or expensive present. Thoughtful, simple gifts of love can have a far greater impact, bringing joy without adding to the holiday pressure.

5. Know When to Pause—and When to Bow Out

It’s okay to hit the pause button if you feel yourself becoming overwhelmed. Celebrations are meant to be joyful, not exhausting. If you start feeling more tired than usual, it’s a sign to slow down or even say no to the next invitation. Taking moments to rest can prevent the “emotional hangover” that can come from too much socializing and not enough self-care.

6. Treat Yourself to What Brings You Joy

In the middle of giving to others, remember to gift yourself some love. Whether that’s scheduling a quiet evening with a hot bath, savoring a cozy cup of matcha, or curling up with your favorite book or show—taking a little time to “check out” is a beautiful way to recharge. Prioritizing small, calming moments can help keep you centered and ready to enjoy the festivities.

The holiday season is a time of connection, joy, and warmth, but maintaining your inner peace doesn’t have to come second to celebration. By listening to your body, setting boundaries, and keeping your rituals intact, you can embrace the beauty of this season without the overwhelm. Here’s to a calm and joyful holiday!