Ah, Christmas! That magical time of year when everything seems to sparkle brilliantly... or, for some, when stress shines as brightly as the electric garlands. As we plan festive meals, find perfect gifts, and juggle family traditions, our brains are on the verge of overheating. But fear not, neuroscientists are here to shed light on this fascinating relationship between Christmas and stress. Here’s a little overview, kind of like an Advent calendar, but to understand what's going on in our heads during the holidays.
1. Cognitive overload during the holidays: More than just about gifts
According to a study conducted by Harvard Medical School, Christmas is a real mental marathon. Our brain, already heavily engaged throughout the year, must demonstrate "cognitive flexibility" to juggle multiple festive tasks. Buying gifts, organizing meals, managing social expectations—all require mental gymnastics worthy of the greatest athletes. This ability to quickly shift focus, known as set shifting, can be exhausting. As a result? Our brain is put to the test. (Home).
A silent battle in our brain
The chronic stress of this period can affect key areas of the brain, such as the amygdala, which regulates our emotions, and the hippocampus, responsible for memory. Continuous overload leads to hyperactivity of the amygdala, increasing our negative emotional reactions, while the hippocampus sees its ability to form new memories decrease. No wonder finding the perfect gift for your mother-in-law becomes a nightmare. (Home).
2. Festive images that activate our brain: even the Christmas tree overheats our neurons
Danish neuroscientists have investigated how our brain reacts to Christmas images. A study using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) revealed that festive images trigger specific activations in certain areas of the brain, including the somatosensory cortex. This means that even a simple image of a decorated tree can elicit a specific reaction in our brain, especially among those who celebrate Christmas annually. It’s kind of a "Christmas spirit network."(BMJ).
An instinctive emotional response
The areas activated by these images are linked to transcendence and spirituality, which might explain why some people are overwhelmed with positive emotions upon seeing Christmas decorations, while others... well, not so much. This shows that beyond its festive aspect, Christmas can trigger deeply ingrained emotional responses in our brain.(BMJ).
3. Embracing stress: When accepting your emotions becomes a survival strategy
For many of us, the holiday season isn't just about joy. According to a study published by Neuroscience News, it’s crucial to accept that negative emotions may arise during Christmas. Indeed, trying to suppress stress can often worsen the situation. Instead, researchers suggest that recognizing and accepting our feelings can help us manage them better. In other words, when stress peaks at the sight of an endless queue in a crowded shopping center, the best thing to do is to breathe and accept that it's normal.(Neuroscience News).
A Psychological remedy against negative emotions
This strategy, called emotion regulation, helps us better cope with emotional challenges, such as those related to the social expectations of Christmas. If we accept that some things won’t go as planned (like that burnt dessert or the late gift), we significantly reduce the pressure and, consequently, the stress.(Neuroscience News).
4. Christmas stress: Even worse than taxes?
If you think preparing your taxes is stressful, think again! A recent study shows that the stress associated with Christmas surpasses that of tax season. Between the gift hunt, meal preparations, and sometimes tense family reunions, Christmas puts our nerves to the test. But there are simple ways to limit the damage: prioritize balanced meals, integrate some movement into your days (yes, even a short walk between two meals can help!), and above all, do not neglect sleep. After all, a well-rested brain is a brain that manages stress better.(Neuroscience News).
The role of Healthy habits
Neuroscientists also recommend maintaining healthy life habits to keep the mind clear. This includes balanced meals and physical exercise, which they say can reduce the effects of stress on the brain. So, instead of gorging on chocolate, why not try a short yoga session to regain your calm?(Neuroscience News)
In summary: Enjoy the holidays without losing your mind!
So, this year, instead of running around like a headless turkey, remember what neuroscience says: Breathe, accept your emotions, and don’t forget that Christmas is supposed to be a time of sharing, not panic. And if all else fails... there’s always the Yule log and a good glass of wine. 🍷
Merry Christmas (and good luck) from everyone at Humanissue Consulting! 🎁
Written by Sébastien GENTY
Image generated by Dall-E
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