HOW TO MANAGE STRESS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

It’s a festive time of year, but it can also be stressful. The demands of the season can challenge our intentions to make healthy choices. This week’s blog post is full of helpful tips to de-stress this holiday season.

Think Simple
Too often we feel pressure to do too much, spend too much, and attend too many events. The holidays are just as much about you as they are about other people and other commitments. 

·     Set priorities and let go of impossible goals

·     Ask others, including the kids, to help you complete chores

·     Rest when your body tells you to and participate in things that bring you energy, not deplete it

Your Health and the Holidays

When you get busy during the holidays, you may miss the gym, indulge in treats, or get less sleep. To stay healthy this season, stick to your routine as much as possible. It’s ok to show up at the holiday party a little late if that means you can get in a workout or leave a bit earlier to get in a full night’s rest. Be good to yourself! Get enough sleep, eat well (most of the time) and keep your sense of humor.

Creative and Inexpensive Gifts

If all of the holiday shopping is stretching your budget or causing you stress, rethink the season of giving. Try baking holiday cookies to give to neighbors, friends and local service, such as your postman or local fire station. Your family may also choose to participate in a secret Santa or white elephant gift exchange to limit overspending for everyone. Teach your kids about giving to those less fortunate. They may surprise you with their willingness to give more than they receive.

Solo Holiday
If you are spending the holidays alone, make good use of the time by enjoying physical activity, cooking healthy meals for yourself, and getting plenty of rest. You will have a head start on everyone who starts making healthier choices in January!

More Assistance

If you are working with a coach already, be sure to stay in touch during this challenging season. If you would like to work with a coach, contact Dr. Steffany Haaz at shaaz@corporatehealthsolutions.com or 443-801-0539.

Some people feel heightened emotions during the holidays. If your feelings of loneliness, sadness, anger or frustration persist, please contact your Carebridge EAP at 1-800-437-0911 or by emailing clientservice@carebridge.com.Carebridge service is available 7/24/365.

Happy Holidays!