Christmas stress: Tips for a pain-free celebration despite the pressure!

Christmas stress: Tips for a pain-free celebration despite the pressure!

For many people, the Christmas season is more than just a contemplative time - it can also become a pure stress trap. The Advent season represents a particular challenge, especially for those who suffer from chronic pain. According to a report by Circle indicator Stress is a real pain amplifier, especially in chronic inflammatory diseases. Martina Janning, an experienced coach for rheumatism sufferers, emphasizes that stress and pain can form a kind of unholy alliance that significantly increases the level of suffering.

The stressful phase begins in Advent and reaches its peak on Christmas Eve, with a possible afterburner until New Year's Eve. That's why it's especially important to take a break after the holidays and take care of yourself. The first signs of stress are often inner restlessness and discomfort, which many people should not ignore.

Coping with stress during Advent

So how do you deal with this pressure? Retreats during hectic days are essential, even if the time is often busy. A short walk or a moment in a quiet room, such as the bathroom, can work wonders. The AOK recommends integrating particularly simple breathing exercises into everyday life that can be implemented in about five to ten minutes. You sit comfortably and upright, close your eyes and concentrate on your own breathing while letting your thoughts wander.

But it's not just withdrawal and breathing exercises that help, but also planning in advance. Loud NDR A study shows that 25% of those surveyed find Christmas very stressful, and not without reason: high expectations of the holidays, crowned houses and harmonious celebrations increase the pressure even more. The idealism that advertising and social media fuel contributes to the stress spiral.

Keep expectations realistic

It's important to question your own expectations for the holidays. Prof. Dr. Christian Roesler from the University of the Bundeswehr in Munich recommends self-reflection to clarify what you actually expect from Christmas. Surprisingly, 51% of study participants said they would like to have fewer expectations for the celebration. Maybe this is the key to a more relaxed celebration?

Another problem that comes up again and again is arguments during the holidays. A survey found that around 24% of respondents always or occasionally argue at Christmas. Conflicts that were put off during the year often come to light during the holidays. In particular, communication with partners and parents is often at risk.

In order to manage stress, family members should talk about their needs and, above all, deal with setbacks. If you create opportunities to retreat and know your own limits, you may find the Christmas season to be joyful and relaxing. The tips from AOK turn out to be useful: clear planning and accepting your own needs is the way to a more harmonious and stress-free celebration.