The holidays are a time for gifts, friends, family and stress. From running errands and getting the kids to their choir recitals to hosting dinner parties and decking the halls, it’s almost too easy to get frazzled like a shorted-string of twinkly lights. While you’re busy taking care of everyone else this season, be sure that your name is on your to-do list, too. Here are four methods to keep you sane during the holidays.
Meditate
You don’t have to go to a fancy, state-of-the-art meditation studio to reap the benefits of a little relaxation and rumination. A few minutes and a quiet space is all that you need to bring some peace into your life. Those who take time to contemplate regularly cite that it reduces stress, improves circulation, increases happiness, slows the aging process, benefits immune health and improves self-awareness, reports Huffington Post.
Begin your meditation in a still position with a mantra or positive thought in your mind. Let your mind settle and be quiet. Take time to feel the stillness. If you’re new to meditation, try a guided meditation app like Simply Being to get started.
Disconnect
How much time do you spend on your phone a day? If you’re thinking that you don’t spend that much time on your device, you’re probably underestimating. New data from Informate Mobile Intelligence shows that Americans spend nearly five hours on their phone each day. Given that we only dedicate around eight hours to sleep and the rest of the day at work or running errands, phone use takes up nearly a third of our days.
Constantly checking social media, refreshing your email inbox and frantically scrolling through your calendar is not helping your holiday stress levels. This holiday season log off social media, put your phone down and get back to what really matters — family and friends. You might be surprised at how much time you free up when you put your phone away.
Work Out
If you’re feeling emotionally drained, stressed and overall blah, working out might provide the lift that you need. Fitness is linked to improved mood, boosted energy, better sleep habits and stress relief, according to Mayo Clinic.
Winter weather permitting, spend time outdoors going on a brisk jog or walk. Too cold? Head to your neighborhood gym where you can take classes, use free weights or walk a 10k on the treadmill. A gym membership is a great way to socialize with other like-minded moms, too. Think of this stress-busting activity as a way to get a jump on your New Year’s resolutions.
Color
Coloring isn’t just for kids, it’s for grownups, too. Adult coloring books and coloring activities are more popular now than ever before. And for good reason. Coloring is therapeutic and it relaxes the fear center of the brain, the amygdala, allowing your mind to destress, gently focus and rest.
Give this area of your brain a break every now and then to reduce your stress. After an afternoon of coloring you’ll be ready for whatever you’ve got next on your agenda. Don’t think you have time? Put your phone down and pick up some pencils.
