Tackling Holiday Overload: 10 Stress Busting Activities for Extraverts Who Are Doing Too Much

Parties, gatherings, shopping trips, impromptu visits – and those extra shifts you have to work to pay for it all. Life can get pretty hectic this time of year, especially for socially minded Extraverts who like to experience everything the season has to offer.

But with so much going on, it's easy to become overwhelmed and burned out. That's why we've put together a list of 10 stress-busting activities designed specifically for Extraverts to help manage the holiday overload. Let's make this season fun, not frantic!

1: Do a boxing workout

If you’re the type of person who hates sitting still and likes to stay active, try a boxing workout. Not only will the physical activity get your blood pumping, it's a great way to release pent-up energy and reduce stress levels. Research has observed mood improvements among those who practice this type of training. Punching the air can be a lot of fun!

2: Look after some plants

Instead of relaxing with a bubble bath or a good book, get your butt moving by tending to your houseplants. Don’t have any houseplants? Get some! You can find cheap houseplants online, at your local homeware store, or ask for cuttings from friends. It will quickly become your new favorite hobby and top stress-busting activity. You could even try growing your own fruit, vegetables, and potted herbs for personal and thoughtful gifts.

3: Go on a hike

Yes, we know your social calendar is overflowing. That's why it's important to take some time for yourself and go for a walk or hike. The combination of fresh air, movement and solitude are perfect for stress-busting and you can explore a new neighborhood or nature trail at the same time.

4: Play with a pet

Forget bubble baths and meditation – if you’re stressed, stroke or play with a pet. Research shows that just 10 minutes of interacting with cats and dogs can result in a significant reduction in stress hormones. If you don’t have a pet of your own at home, you could offer to look after your friend or neighbor’s pet or sign up to a pet-sitting app. Or, you might try volunteering at your local shelter for longer-term stress-reducing effects. What better way to spend Christmas than helping a forgotten pet find a happy new home?

5: Sing it out

Singing has been scientifically proven to help you de-stress by reducing cortisol levels (a stress hormone) and even improving your respiratory muscles if you do it often enough. The Holidays are the best time to sing your heart out since you’ll find holiday tunes everywhere you go. So, grab some friends and hit up a karaoke bar or have a caroling session around the neighborhood. Taylor Swift is especially perfect for the job (not scientifically proven).

6: Paint something

You don’t need to be an artist to get creative at home. Next time you’re home alone, try painting for a therapeutic activity that’s both relaxing and satisfying. You choose the scale – try painting on paper, canvas, or even a wall in your house (not recommended if you’re renting!). There are really no limits to this activity, so let your creativity inspire you. And if you don’t know where to start, try looking up a tutorial on YouTube to help you get started. 

7: Clean your space

This one might not sound fun but cleaning your space can be very relaxing, especially when your mind is buzzing with a thousand thoughts and to-do lists. Cleaning can be a form of meditation, giving your hands and body something to do while your mind is free to wander and think through anything that’s bothering you right now. No need to wait until spring.

8: Make Christmas cookies

If you have extra time on your hands, why not use it to make a wholesome batch of Christmas cookies? Dig through your cookbooks or browse online and find a new recipe to try out. Baking can be an enjoyable and calming activity, plus you end up with tasty treats for your visitors and friends.

9: Create DIY holiday decorations

Get crafty and reduce stress by creating your own holiday decorations. This can be anything from beautiful handmade ornaments for your Christmas tree to personalized stockings for the whole family. You can find a plethora of holiday craft ideas online, fitting for all skill levels. Not only is this a fun way to engage your creative side, but it also adds a warm, personal touch to your holiday decor.

10. Host an "Extravert Escape" party

Unwind and recharge from all the holiday bustle in your own Extraverted way – with good company, lively conversation, and maybe even a game night. An "Extravert Escape" party should be small and low-key enough to relax you but sociable enough to fill your Extraverted need for social interaction. Invite a few close friends, order some pizzas, and have a casual night in without any pressure to dress up or do anything fancy. Sometimes the best way to de-stress is by simply enjoying the company of those we love.

Final words

As much as Extraverts may love the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it's important to take care of ourselves and find ways to reduce stress. These activities are just a few suggestions, but there are plenty more out there waiting to be discovered. Remember, self-care is the best care. So don't hesitate to try something new, get creative, and most importantly, have fun! Happy Holidays!