Tips to Keep Calm and Enjoy the Season with a Drink in One Hand and a Cigar in the Other
Ah, the holidays. That magical time of year when family, food, and festivities collide in a whirlwind of joy and, let’s face it, stress. Between shopping, cooking, decorating, and social obligations, the holidays can feel less like a celebration and more like a marathon. But fear not, fellow cigar and spirits enthusiasts—I’ve put together some strategies for managing holiday stress, all infused with a bit of smoke and spirit.
Disclaimer: I’m not a psychologist or therapist; I’m just a guy who loves cigars and knows a thing or two about unwinding. This guide is meant for fun and entertainment. If you’re dealing with serious stress or mental health issues, please seek help from a qualified professional.
With that out of the way, let’s get into some tried-and-true methods for keeping your cool during the holiday season.
The Comfort and Calm of a Cigar and a Drink
Why are cigars and a good drink so effective at easing holiday stress? For one, they offer a ritualistic and meditative experience. Lighting up a cigar and pouring a drink requires slowing down, being present, and taking things one step at a time. The process itself can be grounding—like a warm blanket on a cold day, cigars and drinks provide a sense of familiarity and comfort, similar to the way comfort food or a favorite old T-shirt does.
There’s also a cultural aspect to smoking and sipping. For generations, people have gathered around cigars and drinks to share stories, relax, and unwind. In the same way that breaking bread can bring people together, sharing a smoke or a drink with friends or family can build connection and camaraderie. And even if you’re flying solo, the familiarity of a cigar and a drink can feel like reconnecting with an old friend.
Physiologically, cigars can provide both a mental and physical sense of calm. Nicotine is a biphasic compound, meaning it has a stimulating effect initially, followed by a more prolonged calming effect. This combination makes cigars particularly good for stress relief; the initial stimulation helps you focus and be present, while the later calming effect lets you unwind. Combine that with a glass of bourbon or your favorite spirit, and you’ve got a potent recipe for holiday relaxation.
A Quick Note on Moderation: While cigars and drinks can be wonderful for taking the edge off, it’s important not to rely on them too heavily. Overindulgence can lead to other issues, like increased anxiety, dependency, or simply feeling worse the next day. Enjoy these moments of relaxation, but keep it balanced. The goal is to decompress and chill out, not to numb yourself completely.
1. Make Time for a Quiet Smoke Break
When it feels like you’re about to hit your limit, carve out 15-20 minutes for a quick smoke break. A small cigarillo or corona is ideal for a short smoke that lets you breathe, slow down, and reset. If you’re an introvert and need time to recharge after the obligatory get-togethers, this moment can be a lifesaver. Set up a cozy smoking spot on your porch or in your garage. Pour yourself a little glass of something smooth, like bourbon or a quality rum, and let the world melt away for a bit. This isn’t about retreating for hours—just enough time to find your center before heading back into the fray.
2. Embrace the Power of a Seasonal Ritual
Creating a ritual around cigars and spirits can be an excellent way to center yourself. Lighting up a cigar and pairing it with a wintery drink like mulled wine or a hot toddy is a small but meaningful ritual that can help you relax and signal that it’s time to unwind. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy—use what you have on hand or smoke what you love. By transforming these moments into rituals, you’re prioritizing relaxation and enjoyment, which can help you stay present when it matters most.
3. Host a Stress-Free Cigar and Cocktail Party
Rather than stressing about fancy dinners or elaborate gatherings, why not host a simple cigar and cocktail night? It’s casual, low-pressure, and a great way to gather friends without the usual holiday fuss. Set up a few cigars to choose from and mix an easy-to-share cocktail, like holiday punch or spiked eggnog.
Keep the guest list small, play some relaxing music, and enjoy a few hours of laid-back camaraderie. After all, the holidays are really about getting together with loved ones, catching up, and enjoying their company. It shouldn’t be stressful, so keep looking for ways to ease some of that tension and focus on what matters.
4. Practice the Art of Saying “No”
One of the most liberating things you can do this holiday season is learn to say “no” to events or obligations that don’t serve you. By declining some invitations, you’ll free up time to focus on the important events and people. The holidays can quickly get packed with social engagements, family gatherings, and work events. If you’re stretched too thin, give yourself permission to opt out.
Instead, take that time to enjoy your own company. Light up a relaxing cigar, pour a dram of your favorite scotch, and settle into the couch with a good book or a classic holiday movie. This doesn’t really apply to me—I get stressed by watching holiday movies unless you consider Die Hard a Christmas movie.
5. Be Early: The Gift of Time
One of the biggest stressors during the holidays is simply feeling pressed for time. Here’s a simple strategy be early. Prepare everything the night before, set an alarm to wake up early, and start your drive with plenty of time to spare. When you arrive early, you’re allowing yourself the gift of time—time to take it slow and easy.
The old saying from Ben Franklin holds true: “Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.” By getting to your destination early, you’re reducing the holiday rush, giving yourself a chance to unwind, and setting yourself up for a calm, stress-free celebration.
6. Remember: It’s All About Enjoying the Moment
At the end of the day, the holidays are supposed to be about joy, celebration, and connection. Give yourself permission to relax and enjoy the little things—a good cigar, a great drink, a few moments of peace. If you can approach each day with the mindset that not everything has to be perfect, you’ll find yourself a lot happier and more relaxed.
The truth is the best gift you can give yourself this season is the gift of enjoyment. So, make time to savor it, whether that means stealing a quiet smoke, sipping a favorite drink, or just taking a few minutes to breathe. Here’s to a stress-free holiday season—one smoke and sip at a time!
The holidays may be a rollercoaster, but with a few good cigars and some strategic unwinding, you can make it through with your sanity (and your sense of humor) intact. Just remember, this guide is for fun and entertainment. If you need real help, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. Otherwise, light up, pour yourself a glass, and enjoy the ride!
Do you have any awesome destressing tips?