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Hey there, friends! As we roll into the holiday season, let’s chat about something we all know too well: stress. It’s like that one guest who overstays their welcome, especially during the holidays. But fret not! CoverRight is here to help you not only survive but thrive. Let’s unravel the stress, sprinkle some holiday magic, and set the stage for a fantastic 2024.
We’ll start by visualizing a real-life scenario. Picture this: holiday hustle, bustling crowds, and endless to-do lists. Stress creeps in, messing with our minds and bodies. It messes with our sleep, makes our stomachs do somersaults, and turns us into sleep-deprived, hot-mess versions of ourselves. We get it, and we’re here to help you tackle it head-on.
Here is a list of ways to be aware of the stress that pops up this time of year, and we’ll go through some simple, fun, and scientifically proven ways to reduce it during this time.
Step 1…Set the stage for a great year
Me-Time Mania: Prioritize “me-time” in your busy schedule. Whether it’s sipping cocoa by the fireplace or diving into a good book, make space for what makes you happy.
Expectations vs. Reality: Keep it real! Don’t expect a Hallmark movie holiday. Embrace the chaos, imperfections, and the quirky moments that make your holidays uniquely yours.
Tag in Your Holiday Helpers: Don’t be a one-person show. Get your squad involved! Delegate tasks, share the load, and remember, it’s okay to ask for help.
Breathe In, Breathe Out: While bustling around, take a moment and practice some good ol’ deep breathing or quick meditation when things get crazy. It’s like a mini vacation for your brain.
Reflect and Reset: Look back on the year—what worked, what didn’t? Set intentions for the new year. It’s like hitting the refresh button for your life. Try making a list of these as well! Science shows that organizing lists and writing notes is a proven stressbuster.
New Year, New Vibes: Embrace change! Dive into new hobbies, reconnect with old friends, or maybe start that side hustle you’ve been dreaming about.
Routine Revamp: Create a routine that suits you. Sneak in some exercise, eat good food, and get enough sleep. Consistency is the secret sauce.
Step 2…Try some new stress-busting tactics and incorporate them into your routine
Dance Party Delight: Blast your favorite tunes and dance like no one’s watching. It’s an instant mood lifter. You can dance alone, with your family, or with your friends. Even if your dance moves aren’t up to par, we bet it will make you and your loved ones crack a smile.
Be Social, Play Board Games, Charades, and More: Literally find any social game that you think you and your family or friends will enjoy. Laughter causes happy chemical reactions that make you happier, and de-stress you! Having trouble socializing? Try reaching out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while or give a friendly hello to someone in your community.
Volunteering: Acts of kindness go a long way! By helping others, you can provide yourself with a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Nature Walks: Take a stroll in the great outdoors. Fresh air and nature’s beauty can work wonders for your mood.
Mindful Breathing: Practice deep breathing exercises to center yourself and promote relaxation. If you are searching for professional help with conditions such as anxiety, depression, or just general stress, Brightside Health can help! They accept Medicare and are currently offering a free mental health assessment on their website.
Creative Outlets: Engage in creative activities like drawing, painting, or crafting to express yourself and reduce stress.
Exercise Your Way: Find an exercise routine you enjoy, whether it’s dancing, yoga, or a brisk walk. Physical activity releases endorphins, your body’s natural stress fighters.
Healthy Eating: Maintain a balanced and nutritious diet while avoiding processed foods. Certain foods, like those rich in omega-3 fatty acids, can contribute to stress reduction. Here are a few that we recommend giving a go for that endorphin rush: oats, citrus fruits, nuts, Greek yogurt, fatty fish, bananas, berries, dark chocolate, pumpkin seeds, quinoa, avocado, eggs, chickpeas, teas, leafy greens, turmeric, and tomatoes. (And yes, there are others too!)
Step 3…Ditch the things that cause stress! Try to reduce these things for a noticeable mood boost:
Excessive Screen Time: Limit the time spent on electronic devices, especially before bedtime. Too much screen time can contribute to sleep disturbances and increased stress.
Toxic Relationships: Evaluate relationships that consistently bring negativity and stress into your life. Surround yourself with supportive and uplifting individuals.
Unrealistic Expectations: Set realistic goals and expectations for yourself. Avoid putting unnecessary pressure on yourself to achieve perfection.
Clutter: Declutter your physical space. A tidy environment can help create a sense of calm and order, reducing mental stress.
Overcommitting: Learn to say no and avoid taking on too many commitments. Overcommitting can lead to overwhelming, heightened stress levels.
Negative Self-Talk: Challenge and replace negative thoughts with positive and affirming ones. Cultivate self-compassion and a more positive inner dialogue.
Procrastination: Break tasks into manageable steps and tackle them one at a time. Procrastination can lead to increased stress as deadlines approach.
Unhealthy Habits: Identify and work towards eliminating unhealthy habits, such as excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption, as these can contribute to heightened stress levels.
Overconsumption of News: Stay informed, but limit exposure to continuous news cycles. Constant exposure to negative news can contribute to anxiety and stress.
Comparisons: Avoid constantly comparing yourself to others. Focus on your own journey, achievements, and growth without unnecessary comparisons.
Perfectionist Vibes: Perfect is overrated. Embrace the messy, imperfect, beautiful chaos of life.
Remember, everyone’s journey is unique, and these suggestions may not apply universally. It’s essential to tailor these changes to your individual circumstances and needs. Making gradual adjustments and seeking support when needed can contribute to a more stress-free and balanced life.
So, here’s to a stress-free holiday season, friends! Kick stress to the curb, savor the good moments, and roll into 2024 with a fresh vibe. CoverRight’s got your back on this journey to a happier, healthier you. Cheers to unwinding and uplifting together! 🌟✨
