How to Have a Stress-Free Holiday, the ‘Property Brothers’ Way

The best way to be stress-free is to plan ahead. That means making a list and checking it twice. Consider timelines and budgets, then stick to whatever you come up with. Trust us — it takes all the guess work away and avoids that last-minute mall scramble we all know and loathe.

Holidays are about the kids, so why not become one yourself? If you find the hustle and bustle starting to wear you down, do something fun… like visiting Santa and snapping a picture.

Speaking of invoking your inner child, be sure to hang out with that person you can laugh with no matter what. Because when you’re laughing and just a little bit goofy, the last thing you’re doing is stressing. Laughter is the soul’s best medicine, after all.

Who says you need to buy stuff in order to make your house pretty? Grab some friends or family members and enjoy the craziness together. Think an old-fashioned wrapping party or cookie swap.

There are so many great holiday movies on at this time of the year. Schedule in a chill day for you and loved ones, break out your favourite holiday onesie and snuggle up on the couch to enjoy the chill.

You’ll be a lot more into the Christmas spirit if you just embrace it, so why not pull out those ugly sweaters, dust off those decorations and really go for it?!

Nothing calms you down like a puppy. Obviously not all of us have puppies at our disposal, but plan on spending some quality time with the critter in your life; it’s an automatic mood-booster. Bonus points if you buy him or a her a cute Christmas sweater.

There’s something to be said about dividing and conquering. If you have a mile-long list of things to get done, ask for help. Superheroes are great on screen, but in real life they’re always stressed out and lonely.

Whether you love or hate your family, the holidays are definitely a time to come together. Schedule some time with the fam-jam outside of Christmas, and remind yourselves why you make such a great family to begin with.

Tea, hot chocolate or even a cup of coffee will not only warm you up after being out in the cold, but warm drinks have been scientifically proven to help you destress and feel better. Take time out every day for a cuppa and you’ll be stress-free in no time.

Too many of us stay bundled up this time of year, but we all need fresh air to stay… well, fresh. Go skating, tobogganing or just build a snowman. You’ll feel so much better for getting out and about.

It’s December so guess what? You’re going to be tempted by cookies, chocolates and lots of delicious snacks. Be smart about your indulgences but also give yourself a break. January and those New Year’s resolutions will be here before you know it.

On the road for Christmas? String up lights in your hotel room or buy some festive nog. Have a tiny place? Consider a table tree or even a felt, wall version. Either way, you don’t need a lavish display in order to make the holidays your own — just something that speaks to your personalty.

We spend so much of December running around for other people that it’s easy to forget the most important person in your life: you. Take time daily to meditate, do some yoga or even sit quietly in the corner and read. After 15-20 minutes you’ll be refreshed and ready to take on the world.

Whether you’re sipping on bubbly or sparkling water, be sure to raise a glass and celebrate your accomplishments as you go. Presents all wrapped and under the tree? Woot! Finally mastered that turkey recipe? Cheers to you my friend. Whatever it is, let’s celebrate what you’ve accomplished, and not worry so much about what you’ve still got left to do.

Everything may seem overwhelming right now, but at the end of the day this year is going to be over in the blink of an eye. So try to take a moment, look around and appreciate all of the love you’ve got. Because truly, in the end that’s what the season is all about.