The Holiday season is full of activities. How we handle those activities can make our Holidays enjoyable or something we can’t wait to be over. Have you ever been in a situation where you wish the event was over? Do you ever participate in an activity, really thinking about something else or where you need to be next? You owe it to yourself and your loved ones to create an environment which helps you to be your best, most grounded self during one of the busiest times of year.
Here are a couple of tips that will encourage you to be your best.
1.Respect Yourself.
Sometimes it’s easier to say yes to activities that you really don’t want to do than it is to say no. One of the toughest actions is to be true to yourself during this busy season. If someone asks you to get involved with a project or task, assess if it is the right project or task for you. If you are asked to cook something and you don’t enjoy cooking offer to bring something that doesn’t require cooking. If you feel overwhelmed and overscheduled with too many activities decline an invitation that doesn’t work for you.
It is ok and important to take care of yourself. Taking the time to think about whether an activity or task fits your schedule will help you stay more relaxed and enjoy the things that you do decide to participate in with your family and friends.
2.Breathe.
Emotions and stress can often run high during the Holiday season. When you find yourself needing a break, focus on your breathing. Often times when the stress becomes great, we tend to do a lot of shallow breathing.
Take one minute and take a deep breath in and out. Focus on filling your lungs and diaphragm with air and then slowly releasing that air through your mouth. Taking three deep breaths in and out can help you to focus on that moment and not worry about all the things on your list. Try it!
3.Focus on what’s Important.
Think about what is important to you during the Holiday season. Is it your spirit, religion, family, friends, a break from work and the regular routine of life? Once you identify what is important to you; focus on those things and try to bring more of a what’s important to me focus into the Holidays.
Reducing your stress will help you feel more grateful and help you enjoy the Holiday season.
