Do you worry about staying cheerful during the holidays? Do festivities spark more worries than warm feelings? Of course you want to have a light heart and free spirit. But many people become super stressed during the holiday season, regardless of their hopes to stay positive. If you become wound up as the holidays approach, you are not alone. Many people struggle with feelings like loneliness, loss or anxiety. Negative thinking tends to feed on itself. That’s why self-care is more important now than ever. Take time to plan ahead before you feel overwhelmed. What new comforts could help you enjoy the holidays differently? Here are some ideas for healthy self-care if you’re stressed about celebrations. Reframe Expectations The holidays are stressful for almost everyone. It’s a chaotic time for most people, no matter how cheerful they look. There is more traffic on the road, bigger crowds everywhere, and more commitments on your schedule. These pressures can make people flustered or

Source: How to Handle Holiday Stress with Compassion