How to manage Thanksgiving stress before the feast

Family, friends, pumpkin pie — there’s a lot to love about Thanksgiving. But let’s be real: For many hosts, by the time everyone goes around the table to share what they’re grateful for, the biggest relief is thinking, “At least the day is almost over.” Between cooking, cleaning, and making sure everything runs smoothly, the stress can quickly take over, making it hard to fully enjoy the holiday.

The pressure to prepare a perfect meal and entertain guests can leave hosts feeling stressed before the appetizers are served. That’s why it’s important to carve out time for yourself — not just the turkey. Staying grounded with simple routines or moments of self-care can help you manage stress and make space to enjoy the people around you.

A great way to do that? A little exercise and relaxation in your Swimming SPA. A quick workout and soothing hydrotherapy can reduce stress, boost your energy, and set the tone for a peaceful Thanksgiving.

Holiday stress: How it sneaks in  

The holidays may bring joy, but they also come with unexpected stressors. Even the best-laid plans can hit snags. There are last-minute grocery store runs, cooking mishaps, and the chaos of hosting a houseful of guests. 

In a Yahoo News/YouGov survey, participants were asked about the pressure they feel around Thanksgiving and gift-giving season. Compared to other times of the year, 43% of women and 32% of men said their stress and anxiety levels increase during the holidays. 

“Just having to do the tasks creates additional stress and anxiety, but also I think there is this cultural expectation around perfection and doing it all during this time of year that’s probably not very realistic, but drives a lot of the stress,” Vaile Wright, the American Psychological Association’s senior director of health care innovation, told Yahoo Life.

Smart ways to manage Thanksgiving stress

When your mind and body are overwhelmed, it’s harder to be present with your loved ones. But a little self-care can go a long way. Making time for relaxation and a light workout will help you reset, keeping stress at bay and energy levels high throughout the day.

Kick off the morning with a light workout  

Exercise is one of the best ways to reduce holiday stress. When you move your body, you release feel-good hormones called endorphins, which improve your mood and help you feel more in control. 

But you don’t have to register for your local turkey trot, which can add even more stress with early start times, crowded parking lots, and the pressure to keep pace with other runners.

A low-impact workout in your swim spa gets your blood flowing without putting stress on your joints, giving you the boost you need to take on the day.  

A leisurely swim against the current provides a gentle full-body workout. Water running can elevate your heart rate and shake off tension.  Or, you can use the water’s resistance to stretch muscles and improve flexibility.