Although the holidays are filled with lots of laughter, bonding, and fun, the Christmas and New Year period can be extremely stressful. Figuring out how to buy the perfect gifts for friends and family and choosing whose house to celebrate at can cause lots of agitation. Just because these times can make you stressed out, it does not mean that they have to. Here are the best ways to relax and destress during the next couple of weeks.
COOK UP A STORM
Baking can be meditative. Along with cooking, activities that require complete attention to detail which can take your mind off of stressors. By engaging the senses, you can relax and be fully in the moment. Smelling the aromas and tasting the flavors can also boost serotonin and dopamine in the brain. According to senior Megan Dominguez, the most relaxing activity for her during the holidays is cooking and baking.
“On Noche Buena, I alleviate my stress by baking flan and chocolate chip cookies. I also cook arroz con frijoles, yuca, and chicharrones while my dad does the Caja China,” she said.
NAME THAT TUNE
Music has a positive effect on overall mood and attitude. Music can take your mind to a peaceful place by calming racing thoughts. Christmas music in particular can invoke feelings of nostalgia that will have a pleasant impact neurologically. Like cooking and baking, music can release dopamine and serotonin that make people feel content.
“I love listening to ‘Baby It’s Cold Outside’ by Idina Menzel because it’s really nice to listen to how she and Michael Bublé sing it together. Their voices pair so well and the lyrics make me happy,” said senior Natalia Davila.
BLOOD IS THICKER THAN WATER
Lastly, spending time with family is the best way to destress during the holidays. Sharing a meal while enjoying each other’s company can give a sense of belonging and connection. Being present and grateful for having one another can lead to feeling emotionally satisfied and happy.
I’m grateful that we get a winter break because it enables me to talk to my family more and spend quality time with them.”
— Senior Rachael Restrepo
If you find yourself feeling stressed out this holiday season, use these tips to help you relax and recharge for 2024.
