How could completing your body's stress cycle reshape your approach to holiday pressures?

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the endless to-do lists, family gatherings, and, let’s be honest—plenty of stress. This week, I dive into the rising stress levels that seem to take over around this time of year and, more importantly, how we can actually manage that stress in a way that doesn’t make us want to run for the hills (or the eggnog). So let’s get into the heart of what I’ve learned about stress, our bodies, and how we can protect our peace this season.

First, let’s get on the same page about what stress really is. Stress isn’t just that tightness in your chest as you’re battling through mall traffic or the feeling you get when you’re wrapping gifts at midnight. Stress is a physiological response—your body’s way of dealing with perceived threats. It’s like a signal that says, “Hey! Something’s up!” But here’s the kicker: if we don’t complete the stress cycle, that little alarm keeps ringing, stacking up until we’re a frazzled mess by New Year’s.

“Spending your energy trying to avoid the inevitable is part of what's stressing you out.”

This brings me to one of the biggest takeaways: the importance of completing the stress cycle. This is where the magic happens, folks. Think of your stress cycle like a loop that needs to close. Your body needs a signal that everything’s okay, or it’ll keep hanging on to those stress hormones. And no, just binge-watching holiday movies won’t do it (though that’s definitely a part of the recovery plan). To close the loop, we need intentional actions: physical movement like a brisk walk, maybe a good old-fashioned cry, or even a dance party in the living room. Yes, a cry counts! Crying is one of the most natural ways to release stress, yet we often hold back those tears. So grab some tissues, lean into it, and feel that release.

Speaking of feelings—oh, what a loaded topic! During the holidays, it’s tempting to push emotions aside. We tell ourselves to power through, to just “keep it together,” especially when kids, family, and everyone else are depending on us. But here’s the thing: pushing feelings down only adds to the pile. What if, instead, we made space to feel? I know, revolutionary, right? But feeling our feelings is essential to handling stress. When we allow ourselves to feel, we’re way more in tune with what’s really going on and can then address our stress more effectively.

Then, there’s the concept of boundaries. We’ve all heard it before, but setting boundaries is like putting up a fence around your peace. Boundaries aren’t about being harsh or distant—they’re about preserving your energy. This could mean limiting the number of gatherings you attend or saying no to that family tradition you secretly dread. And here’s the golden rule: You are not responsible for anyone else’s emotions. Let’s stop carrying around other people’s stress or expectations like holiday luggage. Their feelings are their business, and your job is to protect your joy.

So here’s my challenge to you this holiday season: prioritize your well-being. Take that 20-minute walk, let yourself cry if you need to, and remember that you are extraordinary and so deserving of a joyful holiday. Set boundaries that honor you, feel every feeling that comes up, and let’s get through this season feeling lighter, not burdened. Because here’s the truth: your joy doesn’t come from perfect plans or keeping everyone else happy—it comes from honoring yourself, your needs, and, yes, even your stress cycle.

This season, let’s keep it real, keep it joyful, and above all, keep it stress-managed.

Take care of yourselves and therefore each other!

XO, Brooke Jean