Ready or not, the holidays are here. This time of year can be extremely stressful. Not that 12 hour days 6 days per week (if not 7. aren?t enough?you also have family, friends, and yourself to take care of.
To help you survive the holiday season we have compiled 7 tips to manage your stress and take care of yourself during this busy time.
1. Breathe
One of the quickest and most effective, but often overlooked ways to release stress is to breathe. When we are in a constant state of stress our bodies react with shallow breaths, which do not provide our bodies or brain with the oxygen we need. When you feel yourself feeling overwhelmed, stop what you are doing and take 3 very deep breaths. A good rule to follow is to inhale through the nose for 5 seconds, hold for 15 seconds, and exhale through the mouth for 10 seconds. You may be amazed at how this simple technique will help you.
2. Do Something Good for Yourself
One of the quickest and most effective, but often overlooked ways to release stress is to breathe. When we are in a constant state of stress our bodies react with shallow breaths, which do not provide our bodies or brain with the oxygen we need. When you feel yourself feeling overwhelmed, stop what you are doing and take 3 very deep breaths. A good rule to follow is to inhale through the nose for 5 seconds, hold for 15 seconds, and exhale through the mouth for 10 seconds. You may be amazed at how this simple technique will help you.
3. Focus on the Positives
When someone is constantly under pressure to produce and meet deadlines it can be easy to get lost in negative or worrisome thoughts. When you find yourself doing this think of the positive things in your life. Whatever that is to you, consciously focus on positive aspects of your moment, day, and life. What we place our focus on tends to expand.
4. Get Some Physical Exercise
Physical exercise is one of the best ways to combat stress. Exercise releases feel good endorphins in your body and also releases stress. You don?t have to go jog 5 miles, a simple 15 minute walk can work wonders and give you immediate relief.
5. Proper Nutrition
Our diet is one of the first things to go when faced with an extreme schedule. Comfort or fast food can seem like a quick fix, but it is actually detrimental over the span of the holiday rush. Focus on getting some veggies, fruit, protein, and plenty of water during this time. A healthy body will help keep your mind healthy, which will help you properly manage stress.
6. Maximize Your Rest
Another thing that gets neglected during this busy time is sleep. Yes, there is only 24 hours in a day, and when you are working 12 or more of them sleep is a precious commodity. So when it?s time to sleep, make sure you are doing just that. Get in bed and turn off the mobile device, make sure it?s as dark and quiet as possible, and place your focus on happy thoughts. You can also drink tea blends and or use essential oils such as lavender to help you get in a relaxed state.
7. Gratitude
It is almost impossible to be in the state of stress and gratitude at the same time. In the morning when you wake up, instead of focusing on how stressful the day will be, think of 3 things you are grateful for in your life. No matter what it is really allow yourself to feel the gratitude. And you can use this technique throughout the day as you feel your stress increasing.
We hope this helps you feel better and release some stress during this busy time. Everyone here at Superior Funding, along with everyone else in our great nation would like to thank you for all your hard work during this and every holiday season!
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