Holiday Anxiety

I just wanted to know if anybody else gets like really severe anxiety around the holidays, and what are some ways to deal with it that don't involve food? Thanks.

I don't get anxious about festive occasions, personally   But good ways to relax are to focus more on the company you're with, catching up with friends and relatives perhaps and enjoying the time off whatever it is you normally do.   You could treat yourself to a 'home spa' experience and relax that way.  How about booking a session at the local beauty parlour or hairdressers?  That's always good for the soul.  Spare time's also good to take some brisk winter walks... the cold air and exercise is a good way to work up an appetite so the bigger meals don't seem quite so daunting.

My way of dealing is that I tell myself that Im not going to restrict myself on x-mas day. Its one day in the year where I can just relax and enjoy myself. My knowing this, I find its easier to cope with being good the rest of the holiday period.

Honestly, I get the opposite. I relax. The holidays are usually the best time to relax and enjoy yourself with the company of family and friends.

Jane, as usual, has given some wonderful suggestions which I echo: if you need ways to unwind and not concentrate on food, pamper yourself. Book in a haircut, get a facial or make your own facepack at home and treat yourself, or try taking short walks around. On Christmas Day, or, really, any time I go to visit my grandparents (which is usually on a holiday), I always aim to take their dog for a walk because it means I'm not sat about the house doing nothing. And even then, I do that more personally because it alleviates boredom! But walking and keeping busy would also work to keep your mind at ease and, as Jane has said, helps build up an appetite.

Lastly, remember these occassions only come once a year. Look to enjoy them, rather than spend the upcoming days panicking and then watch the day fly by full of good moments you might've missed out on.