Year after year I notice that as soon as Halloween is over, it’s all about the upcoming holiday season. The days get shorter, the sights and sounds of the holiday fill the air.
The holidays are considered a time for celebrating and spending time with family and friends.
This time of year can also be stressful for many, especially parents of a new baby. It can be overwhelming to keep past traditions, deal with unpredictable weather, do household chores, all while adjusting to your life with a new baby.
Tips for a less-stress holiday season:
- Stay home for the holidays:
- Have friends or family visit you at a time you prefer. Traveling with young children (especially during peak holiday season) can be challenging.
- Ask family and friends to bring food:
- Suggest potluck style meals – have each guest bring a dish
- Ask someone to organize the food (and perhaps they can order food)
- Keep decorations and wrapping simple:
- Decorate a simple tree, or just one room
- Use gift bags instead of wrapping paper
- Ask a family member to help with wrapping
- Try a simple family ‘tradition’:
- Movie night at home with the family
- Read a religious story together
- Decorate cookies (or gingerbread house) using store bought cookies
- Make some quick and easy holiday treats together
- Send “e-cards” instead of writing out cards (or skip the cards altogether this year)
- Take time for yourself:
- Go for a walk
- Enjoy a hot bath
- Enjoy a coffee at a nearby coffee shop
- Read a book
- Or simply enjoy making some snow angels out in the snow
If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious or depressed, you are not alone. There is help.
For more information, connect with a Public Health Nurse at (416)338-7600 or eChat.
