3 Tips to Reduce Holiday Stress

While ‘tis the season to be merry, for many of us, it’s can also a season for stress and anxiety, which can lead us to behave in ways we’re sure to regret later. During this time of year, people often resort to bad habits; giving in to sugar cravings, consuming additional alcohol or overdoing it with caffeine.

What is stress? Simply put, stress is a non-specific response by the body to any demand, physical or emotional, that threatens to overcome the body’s ability to maintain homeostasis i.e. a healthy balance.

During the holidays, people tend to experience heightened emotions. You may become annoyed by meddling relatives, or feel overcome by loneliness or overwhelmed by all the cooking, shopping and everything that needs to get done.

If stress takes root in your life, try these 3 QUICK TIPS to get back control and help you gain the upper hand:

1. Deep Diaphragmatic Breathing

Find a place free from distractions, close your eyes and draw a long slow breath through your nose; engaging your full diaphragm (a full belly breath). Pause for a moment and exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat for 30-60 seconds.

2. Imaginary Mindfulness

Continue with the above breathing technique, and now add a visualization – a relaxing scene or phrase (Mudra) that helps you relax. Keep your focus on this quite place or scene for 5-10 minutes. If you mind wonders, gradually bring it back to your breath watching. Try this for 5-10 minutes, or as long as you can keep your external thoughts quiet.

3. Body Scanning Sensation

Noticing subtle sensation in the body keeps the mind quiet and outside distractions from entering. Start at the crown of your head and slowly make your way down the body; visualizing each muscle and signal to the body to relax that group of muscles. Breathe into that area of the body and signal muscle release.

Try one or all three of these techniques and discover which one works best for you. We would suggest trying it first thing in the morning, even while still lying in your bed; or, dedicate 5-10 minutes later on each day. Take this time and give back to yourself.

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