Two thirds of Brits are reportedly more stressed during the Christmas season than at any other time of the year, while a third have lost sleep worrying about everything they need to get done during December.
The new research has highlighted that wrapping presents, cooking for large groups and handling challenging family members rank as of the top stressors during the festive period.
To cope with the stress, 41 per cent of individuals jot down their tasks, 35 per cent set a financial plan, and 25 per cent attempt to get ahead of their schedule, while a quarter actively try to focus on their wellbeing.
A third maintain physical activity and healthy eating, and 30 per cent ensure they get enough quality sleep to look after their health.
The study also found that 65 per cent experience pressure to find the perfect Christmas gift, causing additional stress. Of those who shop in-store, 62 per cent appreciate being able to see and touch products before buying, and 36% relish the festive atmosphere.
But common frustrations when doing the Christmas shopping include struggling to find a parking space (24 per cent), braving the cold and wet weather (22 per cent), and navigating packed high streets (22 per cent)
To highlight the stress of the longlist of things to do over the Christmas period, TV presenter Fearne Cotton found herself in a festive flurry as she raced against time to finish her Christmas shopping.
The broadcaster and author had a list of 20 Christmas tasks to complete, including buying wrapping paper, tape, batteries, children’s pyjamas, and presents for friends and family.
Her every move was monitored with a smart device to track activity levels, heart rate, and overall wellness habits. Starting off with a self-proclaimed ‘really good’ energy score of 80, Fearne managed to complete her entire shopping list in less than two hours, clocking up more than 8,356 steps in the process.
She said: “Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year – I love how magical it is for the kids – but it can be stressful and my routine can really take a hit.
“From hitting the shops to decorating the tree, there are plenty of ways to still stay healthy and make time for relaxation. I recently started tracking my energy levels, activity, and sleep which has helped keep me accountable with my wellness, especially in the Christmas hustle.
“Remember, the holidays should be a time to enjoy yourself, so it’s important not to feel guilty if you’re not dedicating as much time to your usual routines, as chances are the Christmas to-do list is keeping you active.”
The study revealed that nearly half of respondents (49 per cent) would be more inclined to shop for Christmas presents in person if it contributed to their overall wellbeing.
Annika Bizon, Spokesperson from Omnichannel & Head of Ireland – MX Division, Samsung UK, added: “We can put a lot of pressure on ourselves at Christmas time. From pleasing everyone around us to wanting the festivities to run seamlessly, it’s easy to feel like your wellness has become a second priority.”
“With the help of technology, we can keep track of how active we’re being, even during the Christmas shop, and feel reassured that we’re meeting wellness goals.”
TOP CHRISTMAS STRESSORS:
- Overcrowded shops and lengthy queues.
- The quest for the “perfect” gift.
- Feeling overwhelmed by tasks.
- Wrapping a mountain of gifts.
- Last-minute shopping anxiety.
- Catering for large groups.
- Pressure to attend social gatherings.
- Dealing with challenging family members.
- Resisting overindulgence.
- Disrupting routine.
- Insufficient sleep.
- Coordinating travel logistics.
- Maintaining holiday traditions.
- Preserving the magic for children.
- Deciding whether to splurge on gifts.
- Finding time for exercise.
- Deciding who hosts Christmas dinner.
- Keeping gifts hidden from kidsFinding Secret Santa gifts for colleagues.
- Convincing your child that 3am is too early to wake up on the big day.