3 Simple Strategies to Help You Stay Calm This Holiday Season

The holiday season is a magical time. It’s a time to reflect on the year that was while spending time with loved ones and generally be merry.

It can also be a time of stress. Perhaps you and your family don’t get along so well. Perhaps you have a lot of work to get done and your boss is riding you to get it done before you get to take a break.

The reality is that for lots of people, the holiday season can be kind of stressful!

If that happens to be you, here are a few simple strategies you can use to help you navigate the silly season with grace.

3 Simple Strategies to Help You Stay Calm Over The Holiday Season

1. Deep Breathing. | Stay Calm

In the busyness of the silly season with all the rushing around we do, sometimes we forget to breathe properly. When we breathe deeply our nervous system settles and we turn off the bodies stress response. Breathing deeply supports our body so that we can then achieve a relaxed, clear state of mind.

Many studies have proven that by breathing deeply, you can activate your parasympathetic nervous system and experience feelings of calm.

Try this simple exercise to deepen your breath.

• Inhale slowly and deeply through your nose. Drop your shoulders down from around your ears. As you breathe in place your hand on your belly and feel your tummy rise.
• Exhale slowly through your mouth. As you blow air out, purse your lips slightly, but keep your jaw relaxed.
• Repeat this breathing exercise for several minutes until you feel your body settle

2. Meditation. | Stay Calm

Sure, when you are busy the last thing you want to do is sit down and breathe. Great news! You don’t have to. Meditation can come in many forms, from a simple walk in nature to a full-on dance in your lounge room! The point is to bring yourself into the present moment, to breathe and allow yourself the time to regather yourself so that you can continue your Christmas shopping or deal with your crazy relatives.

Of course, if you prefer, you can practice traditional meditation too. 5- 10 minutes a day will do wonders, particularly at this time of year.

3. Gratitude. | Stay Calm

With all the busyness around and the never-ending to do (or to buy) list of this time of year sometimes we can forget to take stock of what we have. Set up a daily gratitude practice over these holidays and remind yourself every day of all the things you already have. It will remind you not to sweat the small stuff, and help you enjoy what is meant to be a joyous and blissful time of year.