INCREASE HOLIDAY CHEER

Keep your Holiday Stress at Bay.

The most wonderful time of the year can still bring on major stress for some. Packed stores, a gazillion holiday parties and holiday travel can be very overwhelming. 

We’ve got 8 ways to cut down on stress and increase holiday cheer. 

Let the sun shine through 

Shorter days = less sunshine. Sunlight can help increase serotonin levels (feel-good hormone). Open your curtains, choose the table by the window and try to get as much sunlight in as you can! Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is real and the sunlight can help combat it. 

When life gives you lemons…

Sniff them. We aren’t kidding. Citrus fruit aromas can increase norepinephrine and increase the feeling of well-being  To get the all-day stress relief, dab lemon or orange essential oils on your wrist and pulse points (neck and near hip bones). 

Take a stroll 

We want our life to have some sort of rhythm, right? Walking can do that. The rhythmic motion of walking can actually has a tranquil effect and can help to reduce stress and anxiety. If it’s cold out make sure you layer up and cover your head! 

Apply pressure 

The fleshy pocket between your thumb and index finger is referred to as the hoku spot in ancient Chinese medicine. Apply firm pressure to the spot for 30 seconds to reduce stress and tension in your upper body. Next time you find yourself overwhelmed by the holiday crowds, apply the pressure. 

Unplug 

The buzzing notifications we get from our phones and smart watches can actually elicit a slight fight or flight response from our bodies. Increased social media updates, texts and calls during the holidays can actually stress us out more than we realize. When spending time with your family, ditch the gadgets. Focus on the time with your loved ones and take away the stress of worrying about the world around you. 

Music to your Ears 

Did you know listening to music can help to relax blood vessels and increase blood flow? So, next time you are feeling anxious or stressed, turn on your favorite tunes (holiday or not) and let the music (and blood) flow through your body. 

Don’t Overlead 

The hustle and bustle of the holidays can sometimes make us forget that it’s okay to sloooow down! Don’t over schedule your days. Set a limit for yourself and take down-time to refill your own cup. 

Positivity is Key 

We know our mind is powerful so make sure to use it for good this holiday season. Negative thinking bring about a stress response from our bodies. This is a time to make fun memories with family and friends and enjoy life.

Grab your best (aka ugliest) holiday sweater, throw on your holiday jams and enjoy the next couple of months…stress-free!

Happy Holiday, friends!