The holidays are upon us and I would like to share with you one of the best gifts that you can possibly give during this joyful yet often stressful time. This a gift of wellness for yourself and in turn will be a gift to all those you come in contact with. If you can avoid harboring stress in yourself then you can present a relaxed and stress free self to others. Read more below for some quick tips to to give you more energy, joy, and peace during this holiday season.
- Be mindful. Focus on each day for itself. You have 365 daily opportunities to make life special and meaningful not just this holiday month.
- Strive for purpose not perfection. Welcome and appreciate all the imperfections.
- Have reasonable expectations. Now is not the time to solve any past issues with family.
- Keep exercising, but be realistic. It is more important to stick to your routine and exercise for less time (20 minutes) then to not exercise at all because it takes up too much time.
- Delegate. You don’t have to do it all yourself. Relinquish control and ask for help
- Pause often….and ask “what do I want to do?”
- Get enough sleep. Know that alcohol can really interfere with the quality of your sleep and add to stress.
- Take time for yourself every day: walk, read, get a massage, drink tea slowly, take a hot bath, meditate, do yoga, watch nature. Do it all without feeling guilty.
- Create a plan, set priorities and stick to it. Recognize your weaknesses and situations that present challenges and you will be more likely to follow your plan.
- Go moderate on caffeine, alcohol and food. Too much any of them can lead to feelings of grief that only add to your feelings of stress.
Remember the power to enjoy the holidays resides in you…
