Psychologist: How to make Christmas a relaxed and personal celebration
For many, the anticipation of Christmas begins when cities are decked out in seasonal lights and the first chocolates, calendars, and gingerbread cookies appear on store shelves. Christmas carols ring out and the Tonttuparaati choir sings “Kiire jo on! Kiire jo on!” (Hurry up! Hurry up!). This warm and atmospheric celebration also brings other feelings to mind: how on earth can we get through all this without losing our joy and peace in the rush?
Psychologist and psychotherapist Sanna Nummi considers Christmas stress to be an experience that everyone can relate to in one way or another.
– Most of us have experienced how preparing for the festive season and running our everyday lives at the same time can cause pressure. This shared experience brings people together across backgrounds, and everyone feels inadequate or tired at some point during the Christmas season. This makes the phenomenon understandable and acceptable; it is even comforting to realize that no one needs to be completely stress-free at Christmas, but that a little stress is part of the deal and sharing it with others can make you feel better.
Many people feel pressure to fulfill the wishes and expectations of others during the holidays, but at Christmas, as in life in general, everyone can define their own measure of success.
– Setting realistic goals is a Christmas gift that everyone should open: you don't have to do everything. Choose the things that bring joy to you and your loved ones. Perhaps less is more. One good conversation, a peaceful morning, or a game played together can replace many things done in a hurry, Nummi sums up.
An imperfect Christmas is forgiving and sustainable
Managing Christmas stress is surprisingly similar to dealing with other challenges in life. When everyday pressures pile up, the only thing that helps is to accept the situation, take a deep breath, and do your best in the moment. The essence of Christmas lies in pausing, being kind to yourself, and being able to see what is truly important.
The festive season also highlights the role of supervisors and managers, as the pressures and expectations of organizing celebrations are mixed in with the hustle and bustle of everyday work. How can we ensure that members of the work community truly feel that they are recovering and not just going through the motions of a holiday while exhausted? Nummi reminds us that recovery is not just physical rest, but above all psychological letting go and allowing oneself to be useless for a moment.
– It is important for managers to set an example that rest and recovery are allowed and even necessary for long-term success. However, recognizing recovery is not always easy. The mind can stretch in many ways, but the body often tells the truth if we are willing to listen to it. It is good to stop and observe the quality of your sleep, physical tension, and how everyday tasks feel. If you no longer have enough energy to get excited or your body is constantly tense, it is time to stop, Nummi emphasizes.
Tips from a psychologist: How to cope with Christmas stress and everyday challenges
1) A little rush is part of it, don't strive for perfection. Christmas is not a competition, but an opportunity to stop and be together. When you accept that stress is part of both celebrations and everyday life, and focus on what is essential, you will find peace and joy that will carry you far into the future.
2) Traditions are important, but they don't have to be restrictive. Dare to create your own Christmas with room for new customs and routines. If something doesn't feel right, you can leave it out. Sometimes it's the new things we try that bring the most joyful surprises.
3) Hang up your superhero cape and share the responsibilities. You don't have to do everything on your own. Ask for help, share tasks, and accept the support offered, both in Christmas preparations and in everyday life. Doing things together brings people closer and makes the preparations for the festivities easier. And when responsibilities are shared, there is more room for togetherness and presence.
4) Breaks are important, even at Christmas. Give yourself permission to stop, even in the midst of the hustle and bustle. A moment of respite by candlelight, a cup of mulled wine, or a walk outside can restore peace of mind and help you approach situations with more compassion. This will help you cope better both during the holidays and in everyday life.
5) Being present is essential. Focus on the moments you share with your loved ones. Put your phone away, listen genuinely, and make room for shared laughter, conversation, and moments of calm. These memories will carry you far into spring and sometimes even years ahead.
6) Give yourself permission to fail. Christmas doesn't have to be perfect to be successful. Often, it is the little mishaps that make celebrations unique and authentic. Imperfection is the spice of life, making celebrations personal and meaningful. The best memories are often created by chance, not by design.
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