The holidays are a time to celebrate with family and friends. A time to come together, to unwind, and to reminisce on the year that was. But it can also be one of the busiest and most stressful times of the year! It is so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle around us! We must remember to care for ourselves during the holiday season. Put aside some time each day to take care of yourself, whether that entails taking a long bath, reading a good book, enjoying the crisp weather outside, getting some exercise, or unwinding with your loved ones. Don't forget what the season is all about! Here are some tips to help manage stress during the holiday season:
Plan ahead. We all know the popular holiday song "♫He's making a list. He's checking it twice...♫" Santa was in on the secret! We have to plan ahead if we are going to get through the holidays stress free. Make lists of all your errands so you can't check a few off on one trip rather than running around all day. Keep track of gifts, meals and holiday parties so you aren't caught off guard last minute. The more that we plan ahead the smoother everything will go during this busy season.
Stick to your regular routine. It's hard to stay stress free when every day feels out of the ordinary. Try to stick to your regular routine as much as possible. Keep up your regular appointments and meetings. Continue with your activities as much as possible. The more familiar it feels, the less likely the holidays will feel like an added stress to your life.
Enjoy in moderation. Stick to your normal diet as often as possible. Too much alcohol, caffeine, and sugar can disrupt our immune systems and thus our body’s ability to handle stress. I'm not saying you can't enjoy that amazing Christmas dinner with all the fixings at Grandma's! Heavens, no! Just try to keep it simple and consistent with your regular diet during the week so that the cabbage rolls and mashed potatoes you devour at parties won't be as detrimental to your health.
Exercise. Exercise is a great tool to help alleviate stress! Every time our bodies are in motion they release feel good endorphins which boost our mood. We may feel like we are too busy to exercise during the holidays, but it is important to fit it in to our schedules! Go for a walk after dinner, lace up those skates on the neighbourhood pond or continue with your regular classes or gym routine. Make it a family affair so you all get the stress relief benefits and no one has to miss family time!
Catch your ZZZ's! Getting a restful night’s sleep is essential for combating stress. The more sleep we get the more productive we will be the next day!
Take some time to relax and unwind. Try not to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays! Take some quiet time each day for yourself to enjoy the holidays! Don't forget what is important! Do you really need to prepare an elaborate 12 course meal or drive all over town to find that one gift? Spend some time enjoying the peace of the season and quality time with those we love!
Wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday season!
This article is intended for educational and information purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Should you require medical advice, diagnostics or treatment, please contact your nearest healthcare professional.
Plan ahead. We all know the popular holiday song "♫He's making a list. He's checking it twice...♫" Santa was in on the secret! We have to plan ahead if we are going to get through the holidays stress free. Make lists of all your errands so you can't check a few off on one trip rather than running around all day. Keep track of gifts, meals and holiday parties so you aren't caught off guard last minute. The more that we plan ahead the smoother everything will go during this busy season.
Stick to your regular routine. It's hard to stay stress free when every day feels out of the ordinary. Try to stick to your regular routine as much as possible. Keep up your regular appointments and meetings. Continue with your activities as much as possible. The more familiar it feels, the less likely the holidays will feel like an added stress to your life.
Enjoy in moderation. Stick to your normal diet as often as possible. Too much alcohol, caffeine, and sugar can disrupt our immune systems and thus our body’s ability to handle stress. I'm not saying you can't enjoy that amazing Christmas dinner with all the fixings at Grandma's! Heavens, no! Just try to keep it simple and consistent with your regular diet during the week so that the cabbage rolls and mashed potatoes you devour at parties won't be as detrimental to your health.
Exercise. Exercise is a great tool to help alleviate stress! Every time our bodies are in motion they release feel good endorphins which boost our mood. We may feel like we are too busy to exercise during the holidays, but it is important to fit it in to our schedules! Go for a walk after dinner, lace up those skates on the neighbourhood pond or continue with your regular classes or gym routine. Make it a family affair so you all get the stress relief benefits and no one has to miss family time!
Catch your ZZZ's! Getting a restful night’s sleep is essential for combating stress. The more sleep we get the more productive we will be the next day!
Take some time to relax and unwind. Try not to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays! Take some quiet time each day for yourself to enjoy the holidays! Don't forget what is important! Do you really need to prepare an elaborate 12 course meal or drive all over town to find that one gift? Spend some time enjoying the peace of the season and quality time with those we love!
Wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday season!
This article is intended for educational and information purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Should you require medical advice, diagnostics or treatment, please contact your nearest healthcare professional.