5 Tips for Holiday Self-Care
The holidays are here, but they’ll probably look different this year. Typically, we talk about how to endure holiday stress from overbooking our schedules, over-indulging, and family drama pressure. However, this year we might experience sadness from nothing on our calendars, not being with our families, which might spark over-indulgence. Start this season by taking the precautions necessary to stay physically healthy and mentally grounded.
Gratitude - The easiest way to reduce holiday stress is focusing on what you are thankful for. By now, we all know the studies that show focusing on gratitude makes us feel happier and helps change the feelings the brain is receiving. To change the negative emotional transmissions, ask yourself, What am I grateful for?
Physical Activity - Less activity and more eating is the typical holiday journey. Then the bad mental talk, negative body image, and tight pants start rearing their heads. Make a plan to stay active during this season. You might not get all your regular activity in, but you won’t lose as many days this year if you make your health a priority. Getting in physical activity will keep your stress at bay and your jeans not too snug.
Sleep - Most people don’t get enough sleep. Usually, the holidays increase that. Rest is an essential part of our health and wellness. The lack of sleep indeed leads to weight gain as well as more stress and irritability. Getting enough rest gives the body the time to repair itself. Try limiting your caffeine in the afternoon, maybe skip after-dinner naps, or try limiting alcohol to help get a better night’s sleep during your holidays.
Be present - We might wrap our thoughts around the fact we can’t have the same holiday parties, family get-togethers, or shopping extravaganzas this year. Our feelings can turn sad and overwhelm us. Grounding yourself in the present moment will snap you out of this mood. When you are feeling like you’re spinning out of control, stop for a moment. Take 5-10 breaths and feel firmly planted in your present world.
Connect - This holiday will most likely be without some of our loved ones that normally attend the festivities. While we will probably speak or live chat on the phone. Maybe go an extra step and send a card or short hand-written note to family and friends. Especially, think about important people you connected with for a while. Reaching out makes that person feel special. It would be great if we could use this shitty pandemic to recalibrate how we connect to other humans. It doesn’t need to be a novel, just a quick hello, and I was thinking about you; it will make someone’s heart feel good and spark the change in humanity that we need.