The holidays are almost here; how is your stress level?
Just when you thought you have everything figured out, you realized that you forgot the gravy for your holiday feast. After spending three exhausting hours at the grocery store last night, you were certain you had everything for tomorrow’s big day; yet, gravy is on your mind as you speed toward the airport to pick up your in-laws. “Arrrgh,” you yell, as you feel your blood pressure start to rise. When are you going to have time to get an important aspect of your meal when it’s almost 9 p.m. and the stores are about to close?
Here at The Lite Source, we have gathered a few tips to keep your stress levels at a minimum. After trying our suggestions below, hopefully you’ll feel stress start to melt away!
· Do what Santa does: make a list and check it twice!
I don’t know about you, but I probably would be at the store every night if I didn’t make one! Don’t like wasting paper? Download a note application on your cell phone. I downloaded the ColorNote app on mine and it works like a charm!
· Take time out for yourself
Although it’s the season to do a lot for others, just think about how much more you’ll enjoy your company or holiday events when you are relaxed. Take some time to do something that you take pleasure in. Enjoyment is typically a great remedy for stress.
· Buy yourself extra time with a pre-made holiday dinner.
This suggestion my sound unappealing, but it works out really well and no one will know but you! Many grocery stores have this option in their deli department. You can get a turkey, ham stuffing, vegetable casseroles, cranberry sauce and much more in these packaged bundles. You can mix and match the options and all you have to do is heat them up when you get home. I’ve taken this route many years and have gotten plenty of compliments on a great meal! Just don’t forget to order your meal-bundle ahead of time!
· Exercise
You hear this suggestion time and time again; however it’s healthy and is great advice. Even if you do a few squats or leg lifts while watching TV, it can help eliminate stress. Try yoga or take a walk with a friend. Even the funky dance class you were considering taking counts! Exercise releases endorphins which causes the body to relax.
· Spend some time with furry friends
Did you know that pets relieve stress? They do! In fact, in Japan, people even rent pets! Pets can help improve your mood, provide unconditional love, encourage exercise and according to known studies, have shown to reduce blood pressure. Even on the worst of days, who can’t resist looking into the eyes of a puppy or kitten and smile?
· Don’t hold it in
Let out your stress by talking, writing or even tweeting about it! Even the littlest ways of letting your woes out in a verbal or written form can help stress.
Did you know that proper lighting can help reduce stress too? If your lighting is to dull or bright, it can cause tension. Certain lighting, such as OttLite’s natural illumination can actually improve your mood and your vision within an OttLite enhanced room. Just check out some of our articles on Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD.)
Hope our advice helps and all the best to you and your family for happy and stress-free holidays!
Have any other tips for reducing stress? Let us know!
~Charlene Marie
