5 Ways to Manage Stress This Holiday Season

With all that’s going on in the world, it’s safe to say you are probably feeling increased stress in your life. Stress and tension can take a toll on your body, in ways you don’t even realize. Heightened stress can lead to serious health problems, from a suppressed immune system to upset digestive and reproductive systems, increased risk of heart attack and strokes, as well as speed up the aging process. Not to mention anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems. With that said here are a few simple ways to help manage and wave off stress this holiday season.

PRACTICE DAILY JOURNALING: Whether or not you have journaled before, now is a really great time to start. Journaling is a great outlet for your thoughts, and even a great way to remind yourself how much you have to be grateful for.

READ WITH YOUR CHILDREN: Taking time to read with your kids is a great relaxation technique. Twenty minutes per day can go a far way to aid your mental health while at the same time spending quality time with your children.

GET ENOUGH SLEEP: Not getting enough sleep can affect both your body and mind causing negative side effects. Improving your sleep habits will help boost your overall health and well-being.

EAT A BALANCED DIET: The source of your daily calories are really important to helping to manage your overall well-being. To help maintain good health put some effort into limiting your intake of empty calories (cakes, pizza, sodas, chips,) and instead embrace healthier choices (fruits and veggies).

QUALITY TIME WITH YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS: Though you are not able to gather with friends and family for the holidays. You can still enjoy quality time by getting creative. Instead, have a ‘Zoom’ party where everyone can log on and enjoy dinner or gift opening together.