The holiday season is a wonderful time of year that we get to celebrate with our loved ones but often times we overload ourselves and stress levels rise.
Here are some tips on how to beat holiday stress:
1. Create a plan. Write down holiday parties on a calendar so you know ahead of time where you need to be and include what you need to bring to the party. You can also create a list of the people you plan to buy gifts for, what gifts you plan to give, and tasks you want to accomplish. Lists give you a visual reminder and a sense of accomplishment as you check off each item.
2. Set a budget. Financial stress is one of the top stressors this time of year. Gifts from the heart and spending time together is often more memorable than high priced items.
3. Keep on track with a healthy diet and exercise. Holidays are famous for sweets and over-eating. Remember to only eat when you are hungry, don't forget about vegetables and protein for energy, and enjoy your treats. Don't add more stress by worrying about your weight but remember that over-eating usually leads to inflammation and discomfort later. Also, make time for your exercise and stretching routine every day. Exercise naturally relieves stress and stimulates the release of endorphins, or "happy hormones".
4. Include time for yourself. It's okay to say "no". If you feel overwhelmed from too many activities, or too many people, take a break. Find a quiet place to read, take a nap, meditate, or just breathe and enjoy a few moments of calm.
5. Get adjusted! Chiropractic adjustments not only help to relieve the effects of stress such as tension, headaches, and pain, they also help to calm the nervous system, and release endorphins (more "happy hormones"!). If you are traveling for the holidays I highly suggest an adjustment before your trip and another adjustment when you return home.
6. Adapt an attitude of gratitude. Focus on the real meaning of Christmas, Jude Bijou states that you can create "peace by being fully present," show "love by accepting others and giving with a positive attitude" and experience "joy by obeying your heart and not abandoning what you know is best for the well-being of you and your family."
7. Take note of your emotions. Journaling can be beneficial for getting your emotions out so you can focus on the present moment and find peace. Many people feel sadness, grief, anxiety, depression, nervousness, and even anger during the holidays. Recognize these emotions and deal with them constructively.
We're here to help! Whether you need some relief from the effects of your stress, need someone to share in your joy or your sadness, or just need to feel cared for, we are here.
Have as good a day as you can.
Dr. Sarah