Holiday Stress Tips from Dr. Janet
Holiday stress may be common, but you can manage it with healthy coping mechanisms. Use these planning tips and healthy coping mechanisms to help reduce holiday stress.
Tip #1: Budget
The holidays can be financially stressful, and without a plan or budget, spending can become excessive and outside of someone’s financial means. To reduce the financial strain during the holidays, create a budget that accounts for your anticipated spending.
Tip #2: Hydrate
The winter months can increase dehydration due to a lack of moisture in the air to combat the artificial heat indoors. Dehydration is often associated with the summer and warmer temperatures, so hydration becomes less of a concern as it gets colder. Drinking enough water will help with fatigue, dry skin, and headaches.
Tip #3: Exercise
Exercise causes a natural release of endorphins, which create feelings of happiness. Including adequate movement into a daily routine can help combat feelings of anxiety and depression that coincide with the holidays.
Tip #4: Time Management
The holidays are a hectic time with a lot of obligations. Without a plan, it can become overwhelming. Creating a plan to address important tasks will help spread them out and ensure you can complete them with plenty of time.
Tip #5: Sleep
Getting enough rest is always important, especially during the busy holiday season. Prioritizing sleep and recharging will help manage holiday stress.
Tip #6: Healthy Eating
The holidays are notorious for overindulgence in food and alcohol, which can harm overall health. Limiting foods high in sugars and reducing alcohol intake will help maintain overall health.
Tip #7: Saying No
It is easy to say “Yes” to every invitation, request, and obligation during the holiday season. Practicing boundaries around what occupies your time and mental health will manage stress and anxiety.
Tip #8: Time Off
The holidays are a time to spend with loved ones, but job obligations can feel like the priority. Take advantage of company-issued time off to rest, spend with family or friends, and partake in activities you enjoy.
Tip #9: Connect
Using the holidays to spend time with friends and family can reduce the effects of stress. Social support is an important factor in reducing the symptoms of anxiety and stress.
Tip #10: Self-Care
The holidays focus on giving to others but are also a time to give to yourself. Scheduling time for activities you enjoy can be a great way to manage anxiety.
Tip #11: Asking for Help
Holiday stress can be overwhelming, and seeking additional support from a medical professional is an effective way to manage symptoms.
Tip #12: Have Fun!
The holidays don’t have to be perfect or just like last year. Pick some activities that YOU enjoy doing, and have fun! Be silly! Sing, dance, and laugh!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
For even more help feeling your best, check out my TOTAL HEALTH TRANSFORMATION program, and try out one module for free as my holiday gift to you!
To access it, visit the TOTAL HEALTH TRANSFORMATION page and click the button that says, “View Individual Modules Available for $49.99.” Choose a module, and enter FREE for the discount code at the checkout.
I hope you enjoy it. Please let me know if you have any issues, and I’d love your feedback about the program!