Thinking about the holidays can cause immediate stress for some knowing you’ll be spending time with your family. Don’t worry, though, there are many benefits to hanging out with each of them.
You’ll Live Longer
Studies show that the more time you spend with your family and the relationships you have with them will increase your life expectancy. So breathe deep as you sit at the overfilled table, knowing it’s helping lengthen your lifespan.
Lower Mental Risks
A Swedish study showed that the more family time you have, the less at risk you are for developing dementia, meaning those joyous memories will really last you a lifetime.
Nostalgia
Flopping down onto your small childhood bed and staring up at the plastic, glow-in-the-dark stars you remember so carefully placing is a great reminder to slow down and remember where you came from.
Let Your Inner Child Loose
Not only will you spend time with the adults in your family, but the cousins, nieces, nephews, and children that come along with it. Let their pure joy infect you while you play silly games, do arts and crafts, and remember what it was like to be a child during the holidays.
Life Hacks and Advice
Struggling at work or in a relationship? Not sure how to bake that full chicken you just purchased last week? The holiday gathers are the perfect way to ask the tough questions and get genuine advice from those who love you. Let your family help you through stress and uncertainty while in a relaxed, judgment-free zone.
Family Recipes
There is nothing better than freshly baked rolls and Nana’s famous banana pudding during the holidays. Having a home-cooked meal is one of the best ways to relax and remember what you are grateful for.
Getting a Break
Sometimes the best thing for our health is being able to be a kid again. Sleeping in, knowing someone will be cooking breakfast for you takes away the worry and stress of the everyday routine. So give yourself permission to take a nap on the couch, have an extra croissant, and enjoy your vacation.
Remembering Traditions
The holiday season is all about coming together and celebrating the traditions you have created as a family. As you grow, new traditions arise and get passed down as part of the holiday experience.
Learn About Each Other
While traveling and visiting family, it’s a great way to experience their home and learn about them in ways you didn’t think of before.
Laughter as Medicine
Laughter is said to relieve stress, boost the immune system, and can even burn calories. So laugh at the dad jokes, puns, and reminisce at past moments to lighten the mood.
Less Tech
Setting the phone down and ignoring emails is a great way to unwind and allow your mind to refresh itself during a very tech-focused time of year.
