How to reduce overwhelm during the holidays

photo credit: Jill Wellington

- spend time with trees - The wellness benefits of hanging out with and even looking at trees is well documented and studied.

- get on the ground - I regularly get down onto the floor and lay down for a few minutes. Sometimes I just lay there and belly-breathe; sometimes I use my heatable eye pillow. Either way I always feel calmer and clearer afterwards.

- food and stress - eating foods that do not agree with you (or overeating) is taxing on the body. When the body is taxed, stress rises. Going to a party or dinner? When putting food on your plate, consider how you might feel the next day.
This year, I have decided to say no to wheat and sugar from today until January 2nd. I have written out a plan so that I am more likely to succeed. Curious about what my plan looks like? Read in the comments below. Wanna make a public commitment of your own for accountability? Add your own comment below.

- introvert vs. extrovert - After a dinner party, do you feel energized or do you feel drained? Extroverts tend to thrive on hanging out with lots of people while introverts tend to feel drained in the same scenario. Consider this as you make plans for the holidays. I.e. if you are an introvert, "know your limit" and stick with it. If there are people you really want to see, graciously exit (the party, the dinner, etc) BEFORE you start to feel overdone.

- move your body - Moving your body to reduce stress is a thing. Even 5 minutes can make a difference. Reach for the sky, reach for the floor, turn left, turn right, circle your shoulders, wrists, feet.... Go for a short walk. Dance in your living room. Do some jumping jacks. Go for a swim.

Do you have some tried and true ways of staying content, grounded, and healthy over the holidays? Share them below in the comments.

May your holidays be filled with ease and joy!
Sheron

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