Moms Vibe:
By Krystle J. Bailey
‘Tis the season! Crazy uncles, extravagant feasts, and the Elf on the Shelf are all ready to make their seasonal appearance. While we all hope to slow down this year and enjoy the moments rather than stress over them, it goes without saying that stress has a way of creeping in when we least expect it. We get overstimulated, overworked, and over everything by the end of the holidays. As we enter into the 2022 holiday marathon, keep a couple of stress-reducing tools on hand to manage the chaos of the season.
Try these 5 natural ways to reduce the headaches this year:
Switch to an attitude of gratitude
Gratitude is proven to increase the happy chemicals in the brain (dopamine and serotonin) while offering a healthy change in perspective. Practicing a few minutes of gratitude in the morning and throughout the day can dramatically reduce your cortisol levels and the urge to rely on unhealthy habits such as smoking or drinking.
Move a muscle, change a thought
This simple reminder is used in mindfulness practice and meditation. When the weight of the holidays and mental stress feels all-consuming, try changing your atmosphere. Use your hands to craft, garden, or write. Exercise, try yoga, or go for a walk. The simple act of moving your body will shake things up and help regulate the nervous system.
Learn the power of saying NO
If there were ever a time to put “people pleasing” tendencies to the side, it’s during the holidays. Remember that you are only one person, and you do NOT have to say yes to everything. You’re allowed to say NO as often as you need in order to balance your mental health and stress levels.
Practice intentional breathing
Studies show that intentional, controlled breathing can reduce anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, depression, and ADD. Check out some videos on controlled breathing or breathwork for a guide on how to use your own breath to reduce stress. Try it now! One good, deep breath is often all you need to come back to the present moment and recenter.
Get outside
There is nothing like a little sunshine on your face to reset your mind and body. A little Vitamin D does the body good, especially in the winter when our time in the sun is reduced. Throw on your coat and get outside. It’s good for the soul and the stress levels. The weather has been beautiful for November. Go enjoy it!
Bonus tip
When you feel overwhelmed by a thought, ask yourself if the situation will still matter in five minutes, five days, five weeks, or five months. If not, let it go! You don’t have to hold onto it. Remember to focus your energy only on the things within your control that maintain your sense of well-being.
Wishing you a very Happy Thanksgiving with your loved ones!
Krystle J Bailey. Multimedia journalist, Author, Poet.
Connect with Krystle on Instagram @thedailybailey5
