It’s that time of year again! For a lot of people the Holidays can be both enjoyable and stressful as well. Here are some suggestions to help reduce stress levels and help increase mood stability.
* Simplify and Prioritize- Remember that we can’t do it all. Often times we have lists and lists of things to do, to accomplish to get done. Remember what is important to you. Maybe it is enjoying spending time with people, spending time alone, seeing the Holiday lights and decorations, baking, or shopping. Whatever your favorite things to do during the Holidays are, keep your list small so that you can enjoy the time doing the things you like to do and not trying to do it all. Stress is the number one cause of anxiety, depression, or mood dysregulation in general. The less pressure we put on ourselves to “do it all” the healthier we will be.
* Basic Self-Care Habits- Try not to forgo basic self care habits during the holidays. It is so easy to put them on the back burner, thinking that it is more important to go shopping, buy presents make plans etc etc what is most important is self care. Healthy sleeping habits; getting enough sleep, light exercise, getting out for a walk to get some air and to be in nature. Being mindful of our eating habits. Pressured with time and so much sweets and unhealthy foods around it is easy to get caught up in the mindset of “l will have this now and start on a healthy diet in the New Year”. Unfortunately unhealthy foods often contribute to feeling depressed, low energy and low self esteem. Try to balance nutrition with Holiday treats.
* Breath – take 3 minutes or 3 seconds to consciously breath. Nothing is that important that you can’t take 3 minutes or seconds to focus on your breath. Conscious breathing contributes to healthy descion making and finances, such as ” do I really need to buy this or not”
* Spend Time in Nature- Being in nature has a way of clearing the mind and reminding us of what is really important in life. So take time get out for a walk, a run, or a hike in the woods. Do whatever you can do to get yourself outdoors away from all the stimulus. It will help to clarify and simplify what is important for you to do or not do in life.
* Kindness- Try to be kind to yourself and others.
( watch out for the critical/judgmental mind ). It helps us to feel better about ourselves and have less conflict with others.
* Gratitude – If possible have some gratitude for who you are and what you have. If you are able to spend some time in giving service to others who are less fortunate then do so, it has a reciprocal effect.
Most of all, try to slow down and enjoy yourself in the moment!
Happy Holidays to all!
Dana Massi, LMHC, LADAC
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Licensed Alcohol and Drug Addiction Counselor
Call: 508.353.8901
Email: dmassi9@comcast.net
