Stress Less, Weigh Less: 3 Simple Holiday Stress-Busters

The holidays are meant to be joyful, but let’s be honest—they can feel more like a marathon than a celebration. From shopping and hosting to endless to-do lists, the stress can pile up quickly. And if you’re like many women, stress often leads to overeating, energy crashes, and that dreaded holiday weight gain.

The good news? You can enjoy the season and stay balanced by managing your stress. Here are three simple strategies to help you stress less and weigh less this holiday season.

1. Breathe Your Way to Calm

When stress hits, your body pumps out cortisol, a hormone that can trigger cravings and weight gain. A quick way to reset is with deep breathing.
Try this: Inhale deeply for 4 counts, hold for 4 counts, and exhale slowly for 6 counts. Repeat 4 times. This activates your “rest and digest” system, calming your mind and body in minutes.

2. Take Breaks to Avoid Overwhelm

Pushing through exhaustion isn’t productive—it’s draining. Instead, schedule short breaks to recharge. Whether it’s a 10-minute nap, a quick stretch, or a moment of quiet, these breaks help you stay energized and present.

3. Focus on Joy

Stress thrives on negativity, but joy can flip the script. Make time for small things that make you happy, like listening to holiday music or enjoying festive lights. These moments boost feel-good hormones and reduce stress.

By managing stress, you’ll not only feel better but also set yourself up for a healthier, happier holiday season. Ready to dive deeper?

Tune into the full podcast episode for more insights and tips!