The Art of Calm

Ana Agud, work/life program manager for Hokie Wellness, offers tips for reducing stress and increasing joy this holiday season. Many adults love the idea of the holidays more than their experience of them – mostly because the list of holiday to-dos outweighs the joy of it all. Follow a four step plan to bring calm and enjoyment to the holidays.

It is the season for connection. We reconnect with those we care about through holiday gatherings and for those more distant through cards and photos.

All of this is about renewing our sense that we are part of something larger than ourselves. This is so important. The idea that we are connected and part of a larger whole is the single strongest predictor of happiness. Remember to focus on relationships.

Schedule the fun, the tasks, and even the necessary downtime. What are the most important things for you to do and events to attend? Think about the importance of connection. Everything that does not serve us and our sense of connection can get cut. 

It isn't easy to stick to the schedule. And you may even get push back or eye roll, but more is not necessarily better. And are you really that fun to be around when you're exhausted? 

Many of us suffer from the abundance paradox: Because we have so much, it becomes easy to take things for granted and then we are more likely to feel disappointed when we do not get what we want. This tendency can be especially common during the holidays.

Overcome it by consciously cultivating gratitude. 

Create holiday gratitude traditions. Intentionally make a real effort to help other who are less fortunate. Make an effort to notice when our expectations are leading us to desire something different than what we have – find something to love in the moment you are in right now.

Keep your emotions in check by talking to friends and family, taking care of yourself, and finding joy on your terms.