Do you feel joyous like the little one playing in the snow? The holidays can feel busy and stressful. Many women over 40 feel this even more because of hormone changes. You may notice more anxiety, more emotions, and less patience. And if you’ve experienced a loss this year, have poor health or are the caretaker for someone who does, have relationship or financial issues, this time of year may be even more depressing and chaotic. But you are not alone. Sometimes our mindset and thought patterns influence this stress and anxiety.
Do you ever get caught in these mindsets?
- I have to make everyone happy.
- There’s too much to do.
- I should be able to handle more.
- Everything should be perfect.
Those are simply not true. Nor are they humanly possible or expected. Instead, let’s rewrite those with God’s truth and reality. Here are simple steps to feel calmer and enjoy the season.
Lean into God’s Peace
When you feel tension:
- Pause for 10 seconds
- Breathe deeply (3-5)
- Speak truth
Examples:
- “God gives me peace.”
- “I can be still with Him.”
- “My heart is safe.”
This shifts your body from stress to calm. I like to call it a breath-scripture reset. It really does help!
Focus on What Truly Matters
Do less to enjoy more.
Try this:
- List all your holiday tasks.
- Circle the 3 that matter most.
- Release the rest or ask for help.
Example:
Skip the big cookie spread or mega variety of desserts to give to all the neighbors, friends, and people at church. Bake one favorite recipe together with your family or a friend.
Connection beats perfection.
Protect Your Energy
Say yes only to what brings peace.
Before agreeing to anything, ask:
- Will this make me feel calm?
- Do I have space for this?
- Is this kind to my body?
Example:
Skip one holiday event so you can rest and enjoy the others. Or skip all except your favorite one. I promise the world won’t end if you’re not there at every event.
Give Your Emotions Care
Emotions need an outlet.
Simple ways to release stress:
- Write a few thoughts in a journal.
- Step outside for a short walk.
- Listen to music – Christmas, worship, or your favorite.
- Cry when you need to – it helps calm our nervous system, releases the stress hormones, and boosts mood by stimulating endorphins. (Really!)
Example:
If tension builds, pause for 5 breaths instead of pushing through. Or change your environment by going for a quick walk or going into another room.
Try This One-Minute Breath Prayer
Breathe in: “Lord, give me peace.”
Breathe out: “Your presence is enough.”
Do this 5–8 times when you start to feel overwhelmed.
Quick Peace Checklist
- Drink a glass of water slowly.
- Eat protein with all meals.
- Do one thing today that will bring you joy. (Maybe sitting and looking at the Christmas tree, listening to music, sitting outside for 5 minutes, or watching a Christmas movie tonight.)
- Do only one task at a time. Stop multitasking.
- Screens off 30 minutes before bed.
- When you lie down at night, name one thing that brought you joy that day.
Small steps add up to a calmer holiday season.
You Are Doing Enough
The holidays are not a performance. They are an invitation to experience peace and joy.
So what can you take off your plate today?
And what’s one thing that will bring you joy?
You deserve a season filled with God’s peace. 💛
Leah Cheshire is a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach and retired speech-language pathologist and homeschooler. After having numerous health issues herself, she embarked on a wellness journey using various nutrition and lifestyle modifications. She then decided to return to school to help others. Leah now works primarily with midlife women who have hormonal problems, weight and digestive issues, pain, brain fog, and fatigue by providing guidance and accountability to help them decrease symptoms and improve their overall health. If you need help from someone who, not only has helped clients but who also has been in your shoes, reach out today to set up a free 20-minute session. Click here to schedule.
