Guide to Holiday Self-Care and Stress Management

There is no reason why one should suffer through the holiday season, and yet most of us simply take it for granted that stress and exhaustion are part and parcel of this time of year.  Fortunately, the truth is that one’s own actions can prevent this from occurring, and are actually incredibly important to one’s health and beauty. 

Holiday Self-Care and Stress Management

No matter what one desires to accomplish this holiday season, there is one thing that should be an absolute priority: one’s well-being.  By successfully taking care of one’s self and managing stress, the individual is better able to enjoy the holiday season and not spend January recovering.  Following are some basic points that can assist in preserving one’s well-being:

• Take the time to calm and relax your mind.  You are probably already aware of the fact that you are able to more easily deal with intense situations when your mind is calm and relaxed.  What can be a struggle when you feel stressed and overwhelmed can be second nature and simple when you are relaxed.  Even ten minutes of clearing your mind and breathing deeply can make a big difference.
• Breathe deeply and consciously.  When we become stressed we tend to take short, shallow breaths that deprive us of the oxygen levels we really need.  By breathing deeply and consciously, inhaling through the nose to a count of four, holding that breath to a count of seven and then exhaling slowly to a count of eight, you can provide yourself with more oxygen and help reduce stress.
• Stay well hydrated.  Not only can the busy nature of the holiday season cause us to forget about drinking sufficient quantities of water, alcoholic beverages can rob our body of the hydration it does manage to achieve.  Make sure you drink plenty of water and consider juicing fresh fruits and vegetables to help with your vitamin, mineral and fiber intake.
• Squeeze in the occasional workout.  Even a vigorous walk or gentle jog for ten minutes a day can be enormously helpful in maintaining one’s good physical, mental and emotional health.  Fitness applications on your smartphone or fitness gadget can help to ensure you’re getting the most out of your exercise.
• Take short, refreshing naps.  Even if you don’t succeed in falling asleep, lying down, closing your eyes and relaxing can do wonders.  If you do fall asleep, just six minutes can improve your energy, focus, and wakefulness.

Love,

Gen