It seems like just yesterday we were shaking off the sand from our sandals, doesn’t it? While time seriously flies during the summer, if you’re anything like us, you believe that fall can be just as good thanks to the crisp clean air, warm nights by the fire, and of course, the holidays!If the mere mention of Holiday season has got you feeling like a stress case, you’re not alone! While the holidays are often known as a time to celebrate, enjoy family, and take time off of work, things like shopping for gifts, holiday weight gain, and pressure from family can make this normally-happy time not-so-happy.
This year, instead of letting that stress get you down, why not try something different? Read on for 7 tips to relieve stress during the holidays!
Go Ahead, Meditate!
Sit yourself down for a stress-releasing meditation session, and watch your worries melt away. A practice that has been used throughout the world for thousands of years, you don’t have to be an expert to take part in the simple act of focusing your attention on your breath, closing your eyes, and letting go! Need a little guidance? Pay your local meditation studio a visit or download a beginner-friendly guided meditation video. Namaste – you can thank us later!
Get Some Sun
If you’re lucky enough to live in one of the sunnier states, let the sunshine in! Sunlight is thought to increase the brain’s release of serotonin which helps calm the mind, focus the brain, and boost your mood. Don’t take our word for it, step into the light!
Try Some Tea
Herbal teas have tons of great benefits, many of which are known to help with stress! Preparing a warm glass of calming tea is a very simple, cost effective way to set your day off to a stress-free start! Grab some chamomile to soothe your nerves, mint for relaxing your mind (and your tummy), or Ginseng to clear out mental exhaustion!
Love the Lavender
Not only does lavender smell delicious, but it’s also known to calm and relax the mind and body. When it comes to restlessness, sleep, panic attacks, or overall unease, lavender will get you in the right state of mind. Pro-tip: Grab a lavender sachet from your local wholefoods market and keep it in your car when you’re not feeling so zen.
Just Knead It
Many people think of Massage as a special occasion treat. That said, when you’re feeling stressed, you’ll want to start getting those massages on the reg! Opt for Swedish Massage, Head Massage, Aromatherapy Massage, or Auricular Acupressure for relaxation ‘round the clock.
Opt for Acupuncture
No longer just a mythical ancient tradition from the East, acupuncture is perfect for those looking for alternative medicine that is backed by science. By inserting tiny needles into specific points in the body, acupuncture resets and restores your body. And once the needles are in place, you’ll get to lay back for one of the loveliest, most soothing 45-60 minutes of your life
Cue the Creativity
Channel all that holiday stress and frustration and create a living work of art! Studies show that 45 minutes of creative activity a day significantly reduces stress in the body. The best part? You don’t have to be the next Picasso! Whether you opt for a little paint sesh, sketch class, evening of baking, or day of gardening, there’s something for everyone when it comes to getting creative.
Do you have any de-stress tips? We’d love to hear all about ‘em!
