The holidays bring a lot of joy and happiness. Family get togethers, tree lightings, present wrapping, and the endless sounds of holiday music all make the season merry and bright. But, the holidays can bring on a lot of stress for many people. From financial difficulties to family disputes, this time of year can take a toll on your mind, body and spirit.
Preparing for this time of year is key and taking a few minutes each day to reflect or mediate will also ease some of the stress that the season brings. Here are some tips on how to enjoy this time rather than drag through it:
- Prepare: Do your holiday shopping early. Try not to save it for the last minute. This really causes a lot of stress and you’re buying things for people out of desperation, not out of true thought.
- Exercise: Try and stay with your fitness routine. Exercise helps ease tension and is a perfect stress reliever. No matter how tired or unmotivated you may feel, try and head over to the gym even if it’s just to walk on the treadmill.
- Watch your sugar intake: It’s so easy to pop another cookie in your mouth during the holidays. But, sugar brings on mood swings that make our bodies feel bad. And, sugar leads to weight gain which leads to feeling bad about yourself. Try and limit your intake of sugary sweets.
- 5 Minute Time-Out: Everyday, take 5 minutes. Just 5 minutes to sit and unwind. Turn your phone off and just sit in a quiet room. Light a candle and just organize the thoughts in your brain. Take a few deep breaths and head back out into the world.
- Make Lists: Keeping a list helps to keep your to-do’s organized. Just writing down what needs to be done can seem less daunting. And checking off as you go along helps you feel accomplished.
- Smile: Say hi and smile to other holiday shoppers. Don’t be a scrooge! Just smiling can release endorphins. Keep a positive attitude. This is supposed to be fun!
- Play Music: Turn the music on when you’re wrapping presents, baking or cleaning the house. Music helps change your mood and attitude.
- Give Back: Volunteering at a senior citizen’s home or cooking for the less fortunate is one way to keep things in perspective. The holidays are about family and being together, not about spending and receiving. Nothing feels better than giving back.
- Stay Organized: Make sure you have what you need. Buy tape and wrapping paper now so you’re not scrambling at the last minute. Keep a few little gifts on hand for a neighbor that drops by or the garbage collector that you see outside.
- Have fun: Take some time to enjoy the spirit of the season. Take a drive around the neighborhood to see the sparkling lights, take the kids to see Santa and enjoy hot chocolate and candy canes.
The holidays can truly be enjoyed if you have stay positive, healthy and prepared.
Enjoy this holiday season with family and friends.
