As the holiday season rolls in with its festive fun, so too does the sneaky stress. Whether it’s the dash to buy the perfect gifts or the marathon of social events, the “most wonderful time of the year” can sometimes feel a bit like a juggle of chaos. This year, help yourself stay grounded during the holiday rush by prioritizing self-care rather than stretching yourself too thin.

1. Take Some Time to Plan and Prioritize

Start your holiday season off on the right foot by making a list (and checking it twice) of all the things you need to do. Then, prioritize. Not everything is a top-tier task. Decide what truly needs your attention and what can be delegated or done differently this year. It’s okay to say no to baking 500 cookies for a bake sale if it means saving your sanity!

2. Set a Budget You Are Comfortable With

Money can be a stressor during the holidays, making budgeting an important part of planning. Set a budget that won’t leave you scrambling in the new year. Remember, thoughtful gestures often trump price tags. And when it comes to decorations and festivities, sometimes less is more. A few well-placed candles can be just as festive as decking all the halls.

3. Keep Your Body Moving

While it’s tempting to turn into a couch potato with the latest holiday movie marathon on your downtime, it’s also important to keep your body moving. Exercise is important for your health, and it’s a proven stress reliever to boot. A brisk walk in the crisp winter air, a trip to the yoga studio, or even just some light stretching can do wonders for your mood.

4. Eat Well and Stay Hydrated

This one sounds like a no-brainer, but it’s amazing how easily you can forget to drink water when busy sipping on holiday cocktails and eggnog! Staying hydrated helps keep your energy levels up and your head clear. Also, try to balance out the holiday treats with nourishing foods that fuel your body.

5. Don’t Skimp on Sleep

In addition to eating well and getting regular exercise, make sure you safeguard your sleep! Give yourself the gift of restful nights by putting aside your holiday projects and hitting the hay at a reasonable hour. Santa’s sleigh may run on magic, but you’ll run much better after a good night’s sleep.

6. Let Yourself Enjoy Some Quiet Moments

Amid all the bustle, make sure you take some time for tranquillity. Whether it’s a slow morning with a cup of coffee before the world wakes up, or a few minutes of meditation or deep breathing exercises, these moments of calm can act as an anchor, keeping you from getting swept away in the tidal wave of holiday happenings.

7. Let Go of the Need for Perfection

The holidays don’t have to be perfect to be wonderful. Sometimes, the best memories come from the mishaps and the unplanned moments. So, if the turkey’s a bit dry or the DIY decorations look nothing like the Pinterest picture, laugh it off. Perfection is overrated anyway.

Navigating the holiday season doesn’t have to leave you feeling burnt out. With a little bit of planning, some proactive self-care, and the permission to let go of the ideal of the “perfect holiday,” you can enjoy the season’s sparkle without the stress.