But, the holidays can also bring stress and anxiety. Between work commitments, family time and all the celebrations, it’s perfectly normal to find yourself overwhelmed by it all.
Make sure to set-aside time each day for self-care and reflection. Here are our mind and body tips to help you get through the season with the greatest of zen.
- Mind
- Aromatherapy – Scents are powerful. A simple smell can immediately trigger a powerful memory, place, or person. Scents have power to evoke emotions and memories instantly and can directly impact our bodies through our nervous system. Scents can quickly trigger physical reactions in our bodies and have lasting effects long after the scent is gone.
- Choose scents like lavender and peppermint to provoke relaxation, and citrus scents to wake you up and keep you alert.
- Essential oils and candles both have the same effect, choose the one that best fits your needs. Dilute essential oils and diffuse into the air or gently rub a few drops acupressure points on the body.
- 5-minute mental break – Build a couple of mental breaks into your day. Take a walk, practice deep breathing or do some mild stretches. You’ll come back refreshed and ready to focus.
- Aromatherapy – Scents are powerful. A simple smell can immediately trigger a powerful memory, place, or person. Scents have power to evoke emotions and memories instantly and can directly impact our bodies through our nervous system. Scents can quickly trigger physical reactions in our bodies and have lasting effects long after the scent is gone.
- Body
- Break a sweat to reduce stress - Studies show that exercise it is very effective at reducing fatigue, improving alertness and concentration, and at enhancing overall cognitive function. This can be especially helpful when stress has depleted your energy or ability to concentrate. While vigorous exercise is often recommended, it may be too much to expect during the holiday season. One the busiest of days, a simple 20-minute stroll can clear the mind and reduce stress.
- Get enough sleep - For at least 30 minutes (preferably an hour) before bedtime, avoid doing anything stimulating or stressful. That means: No texting, no catching up on work, and no watching tense TV shows. Instead, dim the lights and lower the volume; read an interesting book, take a warm bath, do some gentle stretching, or listen to music that helps calm you.
- Dance it out – At the end of a long day, host a 10 minute dance party. Put on your favorite playlist and dance your heart out. Don’t be afraid to dance like nobody is watching – after all – you’re in the privacy of your own home. It’s a great way to get the whole family involved in a fun and active activity.
- Lighten up – When you’re out and about, make sure to lighten up what you are carrying. Choose only the necessities. After a long day of shopping, your body will thank you.
Remember, the holidays are only as stress inducing as you allow them to be. And, they only last a short time. Enjoy the time with your loved ones, and focus on the joy it brings, and remember – we’re all in this together. Happy Holidays!
This article first appeared in the December 2017 edition of the HealthPerks newsletter.
