Finding Joy This Holiday Season
By Donna Stark
Feeling stressed this holiday season? Well, if you are looking for tips on how to eliminate all the stress in your life, you may need to keep looking, because I don't think I can help you with that. But what I might be able to help with, is how you can create a life filled with more joy and how you can better manage the things that do cause you to stress in the first place. Are you ready? Let's get this holiday season started off on the right foot! Take a look at the following suggestions.
Be in the Moment
One of the best ways to enjoy the moment and to stay happy and festive is to not go into any situation with a negative attitude. You know that the mall is going to be packed with people, you know that your uncle is going to talk your ear off, so just try to accept what is and focus on the good. Turn the experiences into positive ones.
Prioritize and Plan
Take the time to prioritize your tasks and plan your days every morning. The most common source of stress is the perception that you can't get everything done. So rather than obsessing about all you have to do, create a list and tackle things one by one.
Get Your Sleep
Sleep is the time when our bodies are able to rest, restore, and rejuvenate. It's also a time when we can de-stress, so take a moment or two to sit down and create a healthy bedtime routine, and then follow it! Here are some simple guidelines.
- Avoid exercise, caffeine, and late-night meals
- Design a room that is conducive to sleep
- Go to bed and wake up at the same times each day
- Avoid sleeping late on the weekends
- Turn technology off at least an hour before bed
Add Some Laughter
It's always been said that laughter is the best medicine and that couldn't be truer than when it comes to dealing with stress. Laughing is a great way to relieve tension and it also helps to build connections with others, so go ahead and start telling those bad jokes you are known for. You now have a good reason to do so!
Socialize With Others
It is crucial to your overall health and happiness to spend quality time with family and friends, so start planning and looking forward to some fabulous get togethers! Plan a cookie exchange, go shopping, or take turns decorating everyone's home! It's the perfect way to relax, have fun, and vent about how your day went.
Enjoy the Season
Don't let the stress of the holidays steal your joy. With some simple strategies and a healthy lifestyle, you can beat stress at its own game and enjoy all of the festivities ahead!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in La Verne, Calif.