It’s the holiday season and whether you’re hosting a party, holding a family gathering or even just trying to do all that shopping with a budget, this time of year can be stressful with a capital S. Being perpetually stressed is not only bad for your health, it’s also bad for your waistline. So follow these three tips to de-stress no matter where you are this holiday season!
1. Breathe. Something as simple as taking three deep breaths can lower your heart rate, reduce your blood pressure and restore a sense of well being. The best part? It only takes a few minutes and you can do it anywhere — at the grocery store, in the car, at work, at your in-laws, everywhere!
2. Drink lots of water. You may feel like you need an energy drink to get you through that shop-a-thon or maybe you are relying on an extra glass of wine to make you feel more relaxed at that company work party, but know this: While caffeine may give you a short energy burst, it’ll only make you crash later. Too much alcohol? Well, it’ll only dehydrate you and add more calories to your diet. Not to mention that we all know how energizing and stress-free a hangover is — not!
3. Remember what the holiday season is all about. When you’re feeling frazzled, take time out to remember what this holiday season is really all about. Think of those you love, be grateful for what you have and appreciate those in your life. That’s what we should really focus on this holiday season — not running from here to there.
Also, remember that eating right and exercising are great stress-busters, too, so keep up those good-for-you activities! What’s your favorite way to de-stress this time of year?