Tis the Season: To be stressful?

Follow these tips to reduce stress not just during the holidays but year round

Many people face difficult challenges and responsibilities that may overlap or conflict. Stress can come from trouble at home, in relationships or at the workplace.

And now it’s supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but you’ve got a ton of parties to attend, gifts to buy, which means money to spend, and just not enough time in the day.

Stress can affect both your emotional and physical health. It can increase your blood pressure, decrease your immune system, cause depression and insomnia and have other effects.

We really do want this to be the most wonderful time of the year for you and your loved ones. Consider these tips when trying to reduce or manage stress in your life:

• Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. A healthy, well-balanced diet and exercise can keep your body fit and able to fight disease. Exercise also is an excellent way to lift your mood.
• Talk about your stressful situations with someone you trust. This can be a partner, a close friend or a professional counselor. Sometimes just talking about your problems and concerns can help you put them into perspective. It can also give you insights into ways to deal with them.
• Stay organized to help manage your time more efficiently. Think about making a daily list of things that need to be done, with the most important item the first on the list.
• Remember, no one can do it all alone. Ask for help.
• Use relaxation methods to calm your mind and body, such as yoga or massage therapy.
• Take a break. Go for a walk, close your eyes and sit quietly for 10 minutes, or go outside for some fresh air, no matter the weather.

Source: Staywell Health Library at healthlibrary.sjchs.org