The EastCoaster

By: Brianna Powers and Brianna McAleer 

While Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to gather with family and friends, everyone knows the real holiday season begins after Thanksgiving. Typically, on the Thursday of Thanksgiving and Black Friday, individuals enter a period of stress. Particularly those who have the responsibility of hosting significant events feel it most. Whether it be Christmas parties, holiday dinners, or the nights of Hanukkah, the organizational tasks can become extremely overwhelming during these times of the season. That being said, it is important to explore strategies to help you remain present among the chaos and demands of the holiday season.

When we think of December, we often view the word as synonymous with our beloved holidays that are marked by gratitude and togetherness. However, for hosts, the thought of preparing food, decorating, and accommodating guests can be overwhelming. To handle this stress, it is important to plan, delegate tasks, and remember that it’s okay to ask for help. Practicing mindfulness can help you stay present. Try to appreciate the moment for what it is and just enjoy the company of loved ones. (Pro-tip: remind yourself that it is never that serious. At the end of the day, the holidays are a time for gathering and surrounding yourself with those who make life worthwhile). It is important to recognize that not everyone needs elaborate plans to enjoy the holiday season. It’s perfectly acceptable to have a quieter celebration or even to spend time alone. Embracing simplicity allows for relaxation and introspection, giving us the chance to appreciate our achievements and the journeys we have undertaken throughout the year thus far. 

When we take on the role of hosting holiday gatherings it often falls on us to handle the cooking and decorating (as if hosting wasn’t enough). While we all know that taking a deep breath and listening to feel-good music and podcasts is a great way to destress, it doesn’t take away from the workload that comes with the holidays. Here are a few organizational steps that can help the chaos seem not so stressful after all: 

Step 1: Make a grocery list.

Make a list of items and ingredients that you need for your holiday meals. Check them off one by one after you have put them in your cart! This will help you keep track of what you need rather than what you might think you need! 

Step 2: Cook no more than two meals at a time. 

Oftentimes we find ourselves trying to use every burner on the stove and every rack in the oven for means of time efficiency. Pro-tip: plan which day you will cook your holiday meals. Some meals can be stored in the fridge, while some should be cooked the day of. Do what works best for your holiday! 

Step 3: Buy your decorations in advance.

While heading to Marshalls or the local discount store to buy decorations seems like an easy task, we often wait till the last minute to purchase all the bells and whistles of holiday decor. Set a designated time for yourself to focus on ONLY buying your decorations. This will help you to have a clear mind in organizing your other tasks and will leave you feeling truly accomplished. 

I’m sure we’ve all found ourselves in awkward family situations where conversations about politics arise, leading to family disputes and discomfort in the air. To steer clear of such scenarios, play various games to keep the energy lighthearted and enjoyable. Here are some recommendations: Headbands, available for purchase at Five Below, Target, Walmart, and Amazon, with prices ranging from $5 to $15. Apples to Apples, which can be acquired at Kohl’s or on Amazon for approximately $17. Additionally, Uno is available for purchase on Amazon, Walmart, Target, or Kohl’s, typically priced around $7. These games are appropriate for all ages so the whole family can get in on the fun!

If you happen to be one of the people reading this who keeps thinking, I just need a break, then we’ve got some fantastic movie recommendations for you. These films are perfect for kicking back, unwinding, and enjoying the holiday season:

1. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

• Stream on Hulu, Max, and Prime Video 

2. 13 Going on 30 

• Stream on Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and various other platforms.

3. Mistletoe and Menorahs 

• Stream on Hulu 

4. Pitch Perfect

• stream on Amazon Prime Video

5. Home Alone 

• Stream on Hulu and Disney Plus 

At the end of the day, whatever you choose to do and whoever you plan to be with, remember, that nothing about the holidays has to be perfect for it to still be a great time. Take a deep breath, pour your favorite glass of wine/brew your favorite tea, and list ten things you are grateful that this year has brought you. If you find yourself getting truly too overwhelmed by the holidays, reach out to others and ask for help, go on a walk to clear your mind, or take a drive while listening to your favorite music. Take this December as a time to be grateful for wherever you are in life and the people, places, and things around you that make life worthwhile.