We are all well aware that the holiday season can bring on immense amounts of stress. Between the shopping, social events, extra hours at work, and extracurricular time expected of you overall—things can get a bit hectic. It is important that you focus maintaining a positive mindset within yourselves. Below I will list a few helpful tips on how to maintain a more stress-free state of mind during the holiday season. However, if you need or want more information on stress, I have co-authored a book on the topic (I Can't Take It Anymore: How to Manage Stress so It Doesn't Manage You; Paul G. Longobardi, Ph.D., and Janice B. Longobardi, R.N., B.S.N., P.H.N.), available on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/dp/1542458056 . If you would like more information about the book and the authors, please see our book website at www.manageyourhealthandstress.com. Now here are three helpful tips:
Tip number one - maintain healthy habits through the holiday season, no matter how hard it can be. If you’re at a holiday party or a get-together with friends, don’t overindulge in the calorie-loaded treats sure to be there. This will only add stress and guilt, or may give you eater’s remorse. To help curb this, enjoy a healthy snack before heading to parties, this will curb your hunger, and you will be less likely to chow down on all of the food present. Also, just don't overdo it—get proper rest and maintain your physical activity, this is still just as important as ever.
Tip number two -The holidays are meant for vacations! Or at least some time to yourself. If you’re unable to take a weekend trip, try to at least make some time for just yourself. Whether you are sitting with your favorite book and album playing, or you’re taking a walk around your neighborhood, having time alone is healthy and conducive to clearing your mind. As you take this alone time, be mindful of slowing your breath, really take it all in and help restore your inner calm.
Tip number three - Don’t feel pressured to be a part of everything. There is obviously going to be a lot going on this holiday season with family, friends, and co-workers. If there is something you do not want to do, simply say so! There will always be next year, or next weekend for that matter. As Dr. Paul and Nurse Janice often say, “Don't give away control of your time and your life to others or events, you are responsible for your choices, make wise ones.” Be mindful of what is best for you, and what you want, not what everyone else wants.
Don’t let you get the best of you. Step back and take a breather every now and then. Take care of yourself as we end 2017, so you can start 2018 on the right foot!
Remember, stress is a choice, not an inevitability. Best wishes on your journey.
Dr. Paul Longobardi
For additional information on these and related topics, please see my website at www.successandmindset.com