There’s no doubt about it. We live in stressful times. Work, money, kids, family, cars, and at this time of year, there is additional holiday stress as well. In and of itself, stress is a good thing and is a natural response. However, how we manage our stress is what is important.
Poor stress management leads to poor overall health; mental, physical, and emotional. It is so important to manage it in a way that is healing and peaceful instead of creating a more chaotic state. Exercise, proper nutrition, breath work, and meditation used together can help to reduce or eliminate unnecessary stress from our lives. They all help to provide our bodies with the tools it needs to be healthier, and healthier= happier.
For overall better stress response, remember to do these 3 things everyday:
- Focus on your breath when feeling tension arise. Take 10 deep breaths and redirect your mind to positive things.
- Set aside some tine for yourself to completely relax, even if it’s just for 5 minutes. Take a warm bath, read a good book, diffuse essential oils that are calming such as lavender, or whatever works best for you.
- Smile! At least one study links smiling to better stress management. Even if you don’t feel like smiling inside, just like the old saying goes, fake it ’til you make it!
What are your favorite ways to relieve stress? Please share below so we can all help each other have happier and less stressful holidays.
