The holiday season is coming with it's parties, events, and other obligations. Before you get swept away in the hustle and bustle, take some time to step back, evaluate your stress levels, and make a plan to successfully navigate the many commitments that the coming months will bring. The many events and to-do lists of the holidays can demand a lot of time and energy, as well as take a toll on your body and immune system. "The best defense is a good offense" as they say, so read on to learn how to keep your sanity and your health through the coming months.
Hydrate
Not only is adequate water intake essential to your overall health, it also helps your brain function better and can help you better cope with stress. Try to drink half your body weight in ounces of water per day.
Eat your veggies
From October to April, there seems to always be some holiday that is celebrated with excessive candies, cookies, cupcakes, or other sugary treats. Make sure you're eating plenty of fruits and vegetables every day. Pro tip: Bring a big salad to each holiday party you attend.
Get active
Being active is another simple way you can boost your body AND mind. Exercise not only benefits your body, it also releases stress-relieving hormones for your mind! Commit to at least 20 minutes of movement each day.
Talk about it
Holidays can be especially hard for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one, or those whose family dynamics aren't healthy. If you fit into either of these categories, seeking therapy can really help you to process your emotions in a healthy way. If you don't have access to a therapist, try journaling. Writing your feelings down can reduce stress by organizing your thoughts, clearing your mind and thinking through problems.
Supplement your stress
Whenever you know you've got lot on your plate, add some Adrenal Complex, Relax Ease, or Magnesium to your daily supplement regimen. These products save your sanity by nourishing your adrenal glands and calming your frazzled nerves when life gets hectic.
Do less, enjoy more
Don't get sucked into the commercialism of the holidays. If it brings you joy to buy gifts or decorate every square inch of your house, then go for it! But if you're doing these things out of obligation, maybe you need to evaluate WHY you're doing them and whether it would be better to spend your time drinking cocoa with your children or playing outside. Generally speaking, when it come to gifts or holiday commitments, less is more.
Essential oils
Who doesn't love the smells of the holidays? Try diffusing Spice Traders, Season's Greetings, or even just some Orange essential oil through the winter months. These essential oils not only kill airborne bacteria, but they may also lift your mood.
Mindfulness
"Wherever you are, be there". Whether you're at your child's holiday concert or just eating dinner together as a family, try to really focus on being present instead of mentally going through your shopping list or next week's schedule. Try this: focus on feeling your feet on the floor and your butt in your chair. What do you see, hear, smell? Notice the feeling of the air on your skin or the taste of your food. This exercise can help anchor you in the present moment, which also makes a big difference in your stress levels.
We hope you are able to use these tips to have a lovely and fun-filled holiday season. Did we forget anything? Leave a comment below, or give us a shout on Facebook!
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