The holiday season is finally here and many of us are faced with increased stress levels caused by this busy season of life. With all the shopping, extra family time and last minute projects, things can quickly become overwhelming.
During this busy time, the best thing you can do to reduce stress is to try to maintain a normal routine. Stress levels increase when your daily routine is changed.
When you can’t maintain your normal routine, it’s best to find ways to take a quick break in order to relax. Here are 10 instant stress busters to help reduce your stress levels this holiday season.
1. Be active. Exercise is very effective at reducing fatigue, improving alertness and concentration and enhancing overall cognitive function. This can be especially helpful when stress has depleted your energy or ability to concentrate. You can take your mind off your problems with activities like:
- Helping a neighbor with a work project
- Volunteering in the community
- Taking the dog on a long walk
2. Get outdoors for a brief break. Most people work inside an office building, and when things get stressful at work (think: trying to wrap up projects before the holidays), it is wise to get some fresh air. Even five minutes on a balcony or terrace can be rejuvenating.
3. Seek out ways to laugh. Laughter is a great stress buster and has many other health benefits. Ways to find humor include:
- Watching funny YouTube clips during a break at work if you need a quick pick-me-up
- At home, taking a break from the holiday rush and watching a funny sitcom or movie
- Browsing funny memes/photos online
- Sharing a laugh IRL with family, friends or coworkers
4. Reduce outside influences and distractions. Try not to get caught up in the latest trends. You may also want to consider taking a break from social media.
5. Practice relaxation techniques. Try a breathing exercise called “belly breathing.” Take slow, deep breaths that fill the abdomen, not the chest. Take three deep breaths and release them slowly.
6. Drink plenty of water and eat small, nutritious snacks. When we get busy, we sometimes forget to eat and drink. This can provoke aggressiveness and heighten your stress levels. The key is to make sure you eat a healthy, well-balanced diet.
7. Do a quick posture check. Hold your head and shoulders upright and avoid stooping or slumping. Bad posture can lead to muscle tension and increased stress. This is particularly helpful if you work behind a desk all day.
8. Connect socially. Don’t isolate yourself. Make sure you are spending time with loved ones. For example:
- Hang out with a friend after work
- Call an old friend to chat and make their holidays brighter
- Watch a holiday movie, sporting event or community production with your family
9. Take a hot bath. A hot bath will initially give your body a kick, which in turn will give your mind a kick, and then it’ll slow both of them down. Add bubbles and a few candles and you have the ultimate soothing atmosphere.
10. Play a board game. You probably have a dozen stashed in your closet waiting to be dusted off. Play a family game like Candy Land, Chutes & Ladders, Connect Four or even Twister. This pulls double duty for creating both smiles and family memories.
For more information about these tips, visit QualChoice.com.
Dr. Lubna Maruf M.D. is medical director of QualChoice Health Insurance in Little Rock.