The holidays are among us – a time of year that’s known for its busy nature that can lead to quite the load of stress. After all, you likely have several invitations to gatherings collecting on your counter and in your email, a long list of people you need to send cards to, and the daunting task of braving the shopping mall crowds to find the gifts for your loved ones. After all, not everything can be found on Amazon...yet. All of this, on top of your normal every day life? Well, it can be overwhelming, to say the least.

I like you, and I don't want you to spend the season stressed and worn out. So, I wanted to share with you some of my personal favorite ways to navigate this busy, stressful time of year and make this season a lot more enjoyable, less stressful, and a time you will remember with fond memories.

Put forth great effort to be present. 

It sounds a little woo-woo, but being able to enjoy the moment is more important than anything else. It can be difficult, I understand. It’s almost a reflex to pick up our phones and scroll through Instagram when we have a free moment. Or to spend more time crafting a perfect photo or video to show the world. One way I like to dodge this is to leave my electronics in another room.

I know, I know. Deep breath.

Don’t even allow yourself the temptation to pick up your phone and disengage from communicating with your gathered love ones. When I’m feeling particularly scatter-brained, what really helps ground me is focusing on my senses. What do I smell? What do I hear? What do I feel? Stopping and thinking through what’s going on around you right then and there really brings you into the present moment unlike anything else. It’s a wonderful tool to use to dial in and be present – and is a great tool to use year-round, not just during the holidays!

Give up those expectations  

A lot of the stress we put on ourselves this season lies in the notion that we expect things to be Pinterest-perfect. That’d be lovely, of course – but just putting your entire extended family in one house is a recipe for something go awry. Therefore, dropping the expectations of perfection will allow you to be prepared for when something may spring up. There is joy to be found in each situation, so even when things don’t go exactly as planned – spend your energy finding gratitude in your circumstances and enjoying as much of your time as you possibly can.  'Tis the season and all that.

Find time to move

It’s incredibly important to keep movement in your schedule, no matter how busy you may feel. Even if it’s just a brisk walk after lunch or dinner – make it a habit to bundle up in your favorite scarf and winter coat to go for a walk alone to clear your mind, or with someone you enjoy being around. Be sure that you are getting your time outside in nature, breathing in fresh air, while burning off some calories and keeping your heart rate up.