Ah, the holidays! Christmas carols, festive cheer and good tidings for all. NOT! If your holidays feel more like Nightmare on Elm Street than It’s a Wonderful Lifetake a deep breath and read on for the way to relax through 7 common holiday stressors. “We all want the holidays to be perfect, but let’s face it, they are stressful,” said Stephanie Whittier, Founder & CEO of T Spheres. “The trick is to have the tools ready when you’re triggered in order to enjoy the festive season despite any challenges that arise.”

The Must-Have Stress Busting Tool

T Spheres, small, stress-relieving balls easily carried in a purse, are just one of the tools to have in your holiday stress-busting toolbox. The balls are infused with essential oils designed to further aid in relaxation. For the holidays we recommend the Peace & Quiet or Inner Strength T Shperes. According to Whittier, who is leading a Journey into Tranquility Retreat at Melia Punta Cana Resort in early 2024, here are 7 common holiday stress-inducing situations and the way to regain your Zen.

Stop 7 Common Holiday Stressors

1. Family- Everyone knows that family can stress us out like no other. To be ready to face the fam take an aromatherapy oil-infused bath. The T Spheres can be used in the tub on pressure points in your back and feet. Light some candles and don’t be afraid to dip under the water and let it all out with a belly yell.
2. Holiday Shopping-When you’re stuck in a long checkout line try swaying your body or tapping your fingers and counting. This gives your brain something different to focus on than your annoyance at the wait. You can also roll one of your T Spheres in your hand as a distraction and to release its aromatherapy scent.
3. Delivery Delays-Realize you can’t control this. Make a cute card to give telling the recipient the gift is on the way.
4. Traffic-Holiday traffic is inevitable. Accept it and crank up your favorite music and sing along or listen to your favorite book. Or if it’s possible, use public transportation for a less stressful trip.
5. Airport Travel-Somehow the worst winter storm always strikes during peak holiday travel. If you’re stuck at the airport listen to music or a book, get a day pass for a lounge or enjoy a glass of Pinot at the wine bar.
6. Money Worries- If money is tight, don’t buy into the commercialization of the holidays. Do a Secret Santa within the family to reduce the amount of gifts you’re buying and remember the gift is your presence, not a package.
7. Loneliness– Anyone who isn’t with family or friends, or grieving a lost loved one can feel isolated during the holidays. There isn’t an easy fix, but going to the movies, taking yourself to dinner, volunteering, or giving yourself a special gift can help.

Keep the Zen in 2024

For those interested in reducing stress throughout the entire year, The Journey into Tranquility Retreat at Melia Punta Cana Resort from Feb. 22-25, 2024 can help. Led by Whittier the retreat teaches guests self-massage,intuitive movement practices, aromatherapy, and self-care rituals. It’s perfect for the harried professional who can’t turn it off and learn to relax and enjoy life.