Christmas can be the most wonderful time of the year but, for some, it can be the most anxious, stress-filled time of the year.
Here are my top 7 self-care tips to get you through the holidays.
1. Start your day with Jesus
*Grab your favorite Bible and start reading. How about the Christmas story in Luke and see where you go from there.
*Take out a pen and paper...it could be a journal or plain ol' comp book or spiral notebook, nothing specific or fancy is needed to start writing. Put your cares and prayers on paper and take note of the answers that will come your way.
*Check out an online devotional, YouTube sermon or a book you may have. Some resources I use are YouVersion, Soulspace, Above Inspitation, Jesus Calling, Rick Warren, Joyce Meyers, TD Jakes, Pricilla Shirer, Max Lucado just to name a few and most, if not all are free resources.
2. Breathe
*Breathing techniques are helpful for anyone who may have stress, anxiety, or panic attacks. They can help relieve rapid breathing rates and other symptoms of anxiety. Breathing exercises can offer calm in the flurry of stress and anxiety. Here are a three of my favorites.
*Box breathing:
*In 2, out 1
*Palm Inhalation
3. Words of Affirmation
Recite some affirmations
Take time out of the hecticness, find a quiet place to recite some positive affirmations.
-I am loved
-I am joy-filled
-I am blessed
-I am kind
-I am enough
4. Don’t over indulge
This is probably the most difficult thing to hold to at Christmas.
Is it possible to have one cookie or treat instead of three.
Have a glass of Christmas cheer and then get a glass of water going. Stay hydrated.
High influx of sugar and carbs will impact your emotional state, sleep and your immune system.
Enjoy in moderation.
5. Ask for help
Guests rather enjoy taking on some small tasks, instead of standing around. Put the kiddos to work getting drink orders and have them offer hors d’oeuvres. Not only does it help you, it empowers the whole crew.
6. Gratitude
Start and end each day with at least five things for which you are grateful.
Gratitude will help:
-reduce depression, stress and anxiety
-improve sleep
-you feel valued
-minimize negative thought patterns
-help inspire and motivate you
7. Exercise
Gather up a few guests after dinner and drinks and go for a walk to avoid the food coma.
Find a park a park for the kids to run off their energy and sweets.
A walk around the block will activate your muscles and help decrease your blood sugar levels.
You will find the fresh air is calming and energizing.
And, if the is not a good option then break out the Twister game and get active.
