Decrease holiday stress

10 things to do to decrease stress this festive season:

MOVE Even if it’s just some morning stretches, a quick walk or some night time yoga, exercising is a great way to blow off steam.

BREATHE Slowly breathe in for 4 sec, hold for 7 sec and then release your breath slowly to the count of 8 sec. Repeat until you feel the calmness taking over.

EAT HEALTHY FOOD Yes, we know that holidays were made for “comfort foods”, and we’re not telling you to deny yourself. Just make sure to include lighter foods in your day to day, it will help with the digestion of other heavier Christmas meals.

WRITE IT DOWN Everyone has their “lists of things to-do”, and trying to remember everything can feel impossible and frustrating. But, simply jotting down your thoughts, ideas and chores can take the weight off. Delegate when possible.

LAUGH We can’t stress this enough! If you are feeling overwhelmed, think of the funniest thing you have ever seen, or the funniest thing you have ever heard. Really laugh out loud. Watch a comedy, giggle to yourself. Life was not meant to be taken so seriously.

DANCE Put your favorite music on and go for it! We mean it.

CALL A FRIEND Isolation makes everything worse. Call a good listener who lets you vent and let it all out. Then, be there for them when they need you too.

GET GOOD SLEEP Turn off the electronics. Set up a bedtime routine like, a warm bath, soothing music and candles. Cut back on those Christmas nights out. Wear socks if your feet get cold. Sleep is necessary for many reasons, but most importantly it’s the time our bodies need to repair, recharge and regenerate. Plus, a good night's sleep improves our bodies ability to ward off illness and boost mental well being.

MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION Be “in the moment” and enjoy the little things. Enjoy every delicious bite of that Christmas dinner. Sit back and take in all the smiles, holiday spirit, fun, music and happiness. Spend 5 minutes a day in a “gratitude meditation” and try being thankful for everything you have achieved.

And number 10.) AFFIRM YOURSELF Okay, we know you’ve probably seen this one before, but tell yourself things like “I will get through this.” Speak kindly to yourself. Don’t hold yourself to anyone else's standards. Media has a lot of “perfectly decorated” houses, overflowing gifts, new cars with big bows in the driveway but remember that is not reality! Give yourself permission to just be you, and do the best you can!

We hope your December Birchbox goodies can also lend a hand in some de-stressing with a well-deserved spa day this month! Haven’t got yours yet? Subscribe now!

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