Creating Calm Amidst the Chaos: 5 Healthy Ways to Navigate Holiday Stress

Oh, the holidays—a time of winter wonder here in Vail, where snowflakes glimmer in the soft winter dawn, and Mother Nature reveals yet another facet of her breathtaking beauty. But let’s be honest: the holidays, while magical, can also be incredibly challenging.

Families have a way of stirring up a spectrum of emotions. For some of us transplants, loneliness may creep in with the changing of the seasons. For others, the holidays might mean piecing together a chosen family when biological relatives are far away. And then there’s the pressure to afford the season’s hottest gifts, which can weigh heavily on parents. Add the whirlwind of hospitality work during the peak season, and it’s no wonder that stress levels can soar.

With stress comes the temptation to lean on old habits, like reaching for another glass of wine or pouring an extra cocktail after Uncle Ted’s latest off-color comment. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Feeling stressed during the holidays doesn’t make you a bad person—it makes you human.

This year, consider trying some healthy strategies to regulate your emotions without turning to substances. Here are five practical tips to help you stay grounded and navigate the season with clarity and calm:

1. Breathe with Intention

Your breath is the only physiological process you can control, and it’s a powerful tool for managing stress. Try diaphragmatic breathing, where you inhale deeply into your belly and exhale slowly. This technique activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps calm your body’s fight-or-flight response. Even just a few mindful breaths can make a world of difference when holiday stress strikes.

2. Move Your Body

Winter in Vail offers endless opportunities to stay active. Hit the slopes for skiing or snowboarding, take a peaceful snowshoeing adventure, or join a cozy indoor yoga class. Movement doesn’t just benefit your physical health—it helps regulate your nervous system, releasing pent-up tension and leaving you feeling refreshed and clear-headed.

3. Co-Regulate with Community

Co-regulation is the process of regulating your emotions through connection with others. Spending time with people who make you feel seen and supported can have a profound impact on your well-being. Whether it’s a trusted friend, a chosen family member, or even a pet, sharing space with someone who holds you in compassion can ease stress and help you feel more balanced.

4. Embrace the Mocktail Movement

Who says you need alcohol to celebrate? Crafting a festive mocktail can be just as fun as its boozy counterpart. Whether you’re exploring sobriety, cutting back, or simply looking to try something new, swapping your cocktail for a mocktail is a healthy choice that anyone can embrace. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter and an inclusive option for all.

5. Boundaries Create Freedom

It can be easy to overextend yourself during the holidays, but setting boundaries is an act of self-care. Maybe it’s carving out time to rest between social commitments or politely declining an invitation to preserve your energy. When you honor your limits, you create the freedom to show up authentically and fully for the moments that matter most.

This holiday season, let’s normalize prioritizing our well-being. By incorporating these small but powerful practices, you can create a more peaceful, joyful experience—one breath, boundary, and mocktail at a time.

And remember, if you or a loved one need support with recovery from mental health or substance use during this hectic season, RECONNECTED Foundation is here for you. Together, we can navigate the holidays with intention, connection, and care.