’Tis the season to be merry right? Everyone may not agree that it is a merry season! Between the holiday parties, office sweets and baked goods coming at you at all ends, shopping and not knowing what to buy or can afford, relationship woes and toxic people showing up when it’s supposed to be a magical time of year. Whew – that certainly adds up to an emotional mess! Just rushing around can really drain our emotions and keep us out of balance. Instead of just barely getting through the season and showing up in the new year exhausted and burnt. Let’s set ourselves up to make it more enjoyable and meaningful. Sometimes we need to draw the line to reclaim the holidays for what they are intended to be but this list is not just for the holidays it’s something we should all keep in mind throughout the year! Here are 10 ways to help make that happen:
- Meditate – wake up and spend 5 minutes or more just focusing on your breath (if other thoughts come just dismiss them and refocus).
- Drink lotsof water during the day to keep yourself hydrated, especially if you plan on attending a party and may indulge in an alcoholic beverage.
- Eat whole foods and don’t skip breakfast, stay away from foods that are full of sugar, they only make you crave more bad foods. If later, you plan to attend a holiday gathering and want to enjoy a seasonal treat, go ahead, you are not going to gain 10 lbs, just be mindful.
- Take a walk and/or get in at least 15 minutes of exercise (preferably before you start your day). Believe it or not, it does give you more energy and helps keep you balanced, decreases anxiety and increases sleep.
- Don’t buy presents you can’t afford! Don’t set yourself up for even more financial stress when January rolls around and you have no idea how you are going to pay for all the stuff you couldn’t really afford in the first place. There are plenty of ways you can give gifts that don’t come with a price tag.
- Take inventory of your desires and what you truly want from this holiday season. If relaxation is on the top of your list you won’t be prompted overcommit. Learn to say no at least once, if not more. Do less and enjoy more! Knowing and moving toward what you want is not selfish. You will be a better person to others.
- Be mindful of your presence whether at a family gathering, a company party or just enjoying a game with your kids. Take root of where are you at the moment and truly enjoy it. And, shut your devices off!
- Spend time outdoors, in nature and in sunlight – it stimulates the feel good hormone serotonin.
- Forget perfection and stop obsessing over doing it all or finding that perfect gift!
- Think positive and remove yourself from stress-induced situations! The holidays can be very emotional for some especially if you lost a loved one. Focus on the all the goods in your life as well as the good memories and not your losses.
Please leave a comment below and let me know how you are making them merrier! Happiest of holidays to you and your family!