Ho-Ho-Ho, and, yes, it’s that time of year! Some refer to the season as “the holiday trifecta” It’s an expression that doesn’t exactly convey the joy of happy gatherings with friends and family.
Born of great traditions and rituals and wonderful memories, the season nevertheless can often turn into a marathon of “doing.” You know what I’m talking about: mad list-making, shopping, planning, running pillar to post—and, okay, celebrating, too. For many people it can all just get to be too much.
However, think about “Holidays of Ease”as another approach to take. It’s not really such a radical concept and the rewards to body and soul can be substantial.
With this in mind, I’d like to offer some hints to help ”increase the ease” and keep the holidays special and relatively stress free for you. Some of these may sound familiar:
1.) Get outside—Even in cold weather, a 10-minute break can give you a new perspective. Bundle up, if need be, and ask family members or friends to take a walk with you. You and those tagging along will enjoy the benefits.
2.) Give gifts— First off, make a budget. Then create a prioritized list of names for your gift giving. If pressed for time, make use of gift cards—homemade or purchased. Another popular timesaving option is to give to charitable organizations in the name of a friend or relative.
3.) Exercise self control—You probably can’t escape the party scene altogether, and engaging socially is a good thing. Rich and delicious food will no doubt tempt you. But there’s no need to totally deprive yourself in that setting. Just remember to use a smaller plate; eat veggies and salads first before moving on to the other temptations. It works!
4.) Express gratitude—Tell the people you are with, even the cranky ones, how much you value them and the reasons you are grateful to be in their company.
5.) Bring your own pillow and pack some essential oils—lemon, lavender, or peppermint—whenever you travel. And don’t forget to pack earplugs too! Increase your chances for a good night’s sleep amid the hubbub.
6.) Change the image on your cell phone to a joke or a picture/photo that’s guaranteed to make you laugh every time. Laughter is the best stress buster.
7.) Move—I ask you, who would I be if I didn’t always implore you to move your body? (At least I’m consistent, right?) Check out the exercise/yoga/strength classes in the area. If it’s helpful, use a mind/body app. Or simply leave the room when the holiday sprits are a bit overwhelming and stretch and move on your own.
8.) Speak your appreciation—Scientists are beginning to accumulate proof supporting the idea that if you are in a state of gratitude, your health is better (see Tip #1 above). So maybe, at what seems like the right time, take a breath and say aloud the names, places, and things for which you’re grateful in creating this beautiful life of yours. And know that, in doing so, you’ve just given your immune system a serious boost.
Denise’s
2 Cents:
It’s nearly impossible to avoid the rampant materialism of the holidays or all the ways you “have to” show up for traditions, families, and friends. To some extent we all have to deal, but please keep in mind the unique moments you are making for yourself and others. They are truly one of a kind.
And all the holiday movies are true 🙂