Manage the Stress of the Holidays
Manage the Stress of the Holidays with Flair and Composure – Hypnosis Can Help!
The Holiday season is in full swing and the busy-ness, parties, end-of-year work pressures, family drama, shopping, cooking, decorating and oh yes, my favorite, overeating, can really take a toll on how we feel.
It can be a lot of fun to see family and friends, eat, drink and travel, but let’s face it, it can also be very stressful.
We all know that stress is the major cause of most diseases and illness, and I must admit, there have been times, when I’ve let the holidays run me down. Unfortunately, this can also lead to overeating and weight gain, the last thing on our Christmas list. It’s more important than ever to manage your emotions and your activity levels so you stay healthy through this
“Most Wonderful Time” of the Year.
Hypnosis Can Help!
Hypnosis may be able to help you release the stress and get you back on track. Here are a few things you can do to stay in balance, focused and get everything you need to do, done!
They always say – Everything in moderation. For whatever reason, sometimes this can be difficult to manage during the holiday season. Stress is the leading cause of disease and unhappiness in our lives and during this busy time of year, it can creep up on us as we attempt to work our jobs, fulfill all of our obligations, visit friends and family, shop, cook and create a festive and joyful atmosphere.
I encourage you to STOP, take a time out and just breathe. Truth is, by taking time for yourself, stretching, yoga, exercise, a hot bubble bath, and especially important, meditation or self-hypnosis, you will get more done in less time. You can feel joyful and relaxed and still accomplish everything you need to do. When you take this much needed time out, your mind will be clearer, and there is a “flow” of energy that makes everything easier. It doesn’t have to take a long time either.
Exercise – I want to emphasize the importance of keeping your daily exercise routine in tact. This one little step will help you manage stress, feel more relaxed and counter-act any accidental over-indulgences. Resist the urge to give up just because you may have “slipped-up.” Life is supposed to be fun and enjoyable, so go easy on yourself if you’ve had a little too much. Bring yourself back to your personal “awareness” space and begin again today, right now. Let your body know how much you love it and will take good care of it through these busy times.
Try this:
Sit quietly with your feet on the floor and your back in a straight and upright position. Face your palms upwards on your lap and take a slow deep breath into your center, somewhere around or above your belly button. Hold the breath for a count of 1, 2 and release by blowing the air out in an even, steady stream. Hold the breath again after exhaling for a count of 1, 2 and start the process over. You may close your eyes and bring all your awareness to your breath and the center of your body. Take 6-10 of these deep breaths and then relax and just observe your normal natural breathing rhythm for a few moments.
There is Wisdom in Your Body…
You may take this a step further and observe how your body feels. Just be with your body, fully present in the moment. If any thoughts arise, just gently bring your awareness back to your breath. Pay attention to any sensations, tingling, warmth, or discomfort. If you experience any discomfort in your body, breathe deeply into that area and as you exhale, imagine you are blowing the discomfort or tension away from you. It’s likely, you are holding onto stress in your body due to overthinking, too much to do and unhealthy foods.
Your body will speak to you and tell you what it needs. Allow yourself to be open to any messages from your body that will help you to feel better.
Additionally, in between holidays and parties, go back to a healthy eating regimen. Avoid caffeine, sugar and alcohol, eat small light meals and you’ll be feeling much better and more rested in a short time.
Hope these tips are helpful in getting you through this Most Wonderful Time of the Year!
Wishing you and yours a very Happy and Healthy Holiday Season!