We’re rolling into the Holiday Season! The holidays are a wonderful time of year, but for many of us, they’re also a time of year when we deal with extra stress. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider taking a different approach to stress management. Instead of trying to do it all, focus on the things that are truly important.
PRIORITIZE YOUR TIME
Make sure you’re spending your time on the things that are most important to you. This can be anything from family time to work tasks. Whatever it is, make sure you’re prioritizing your time wisely. A lot of major stress in this season is because we are focused on the ‘extras’, causing us to lose valuable time for what needs to be put first.
Take a step back and focus on what is truly important. Make a list of your ‘Must Do’s’ and ‘Have To’s’ and try to focus your time and energy on those items first.
SAY NO MORE OFTEN
Another way to reduce stress during the holidays is to learn to say “no.” In fact, it’s necessary. When we try to do too much, we spread ourselves thin and end up feeling stressed out.
It’s all too common that we feel obligated to attend every holiday party or event, but that isn’t realistic or healthy. If you’re feeling stressed or stretched thin, it’s okay to say no. Don’t feel guilty about taking care of yourself. Prioritizing your own well being is one of the best gifts you can give yourself this season. It will free up your time and allow you to focus on what’s most important to you.
PRACTICE GRATITUDE
Ending each day on a positive note can do wonders for your stress levels. Practice good night hygiene, such as:
- Getting out your thoughts that are looming from the day and journal them
- Recite or write down your gratitude’s for the day
- Reading a book
- Meditation
- Nightly Affirmations – such as:
- My body and mind are ready to rest for the night
- I’m grateful for how my body has served me today
- My dreams will only bring positivity and hope
- I will calm my mind and let my worries go
- I am thankful for the opportunities that came my way today
- Tomorrow is a new day
- Taking a relaxing bath
- Listen to Music that soothes you
- Practice self care that fits your desires and needs
Journaling is a great way to get all your feelings out and make sense of them. When you write about things that are stressing or worrying, it helps reduce the anxious thoughts in our head because we’re able to see where these concerns come from which gives us more control over how best to handle them!
Take care this season and allow the space you need to put your necessities and needs first. Let go of some of the things that are not urgent or not on the ‘Must Do’ list. This may mean changing how you celebrate or changing your normal routine during the Holidays, but it may be necessary for your overall enjoyment of the season.
Never forget to ask for help when needed. Connect with a professional if necessary. I’m here to talk and would love to Schedule a time to chat!
Email: info@turningleavesrecovery.com