How to overcome holiday stress.

Christmas is often referred to as the most wonderful time of the year, but it can also be one of the most stressful.

There are several things you can do to lessen stress and lighten your spirit during this time. First and

most importantly, take care of your body: exercise, get enough sleep, and eat well. Deep breaths, especially ones with the scent of rosemary or lavender will help you relax and in turn, lower levels of stress hormones.

Periodically take a walk or a mini break from the craziness.
This can clear your mind and bring you back to the right perspective of the true reason for the season. Laughter and singing, no matter how out of tune, can also lighten a mood heavy from decision making and stress.

Know your limits and manage your time. Remember it is okay
to say “no, thank you” to an invitation. Also, it has been shown that reducing clutter and even throwing things away after the holidays will physically and emotionally reduce stress. Consider petting a cat, walking a dog, or calling a friend or family member whom you may not see over the holidays. Remember, stress cannot always be avoided but it can be managed.

Finally, take time to remember the real reason for the season, the most precious gift of all, the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus. Merry Christmas!

Linda M. Walsh, RN, BSN

lwalshrn@st-ann.org

770-552-6400 x6019  

*editor's note: this came in very handy this week.  Thank you Linda, for your dedication and service         to our St. Ann family. Merry Christmas.

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash