We want to enjoy the holidays, to savor all the joy, yet there are so many pressures: Pressure to live up to expectations, to please family, and to keep our skin and bodies healthy despite lack of sleep, traffic, and all the rich, delicious, sugary and processed foods we are faced with at holiday events, or in the office.
HOW DO WE RELIEVE STRESS AND REMEMBER TO BE PRESENT IN THE BEAUTIFUL MOMENTS THAT THE HOLIDAYS BRING?
BELOW ARE SOME OF MY FAVORITE STRESS-RELIEVING TECHNIQUES:
#1: Meditate: This is my personal favorite stress reliever. I do this every day, sometimes more than once. I do guided meditations with a group, but there are many apps and books on meditation. One of our team members uses the Stop, Breathe and think app when she feels anxiety or overwhelmed. Even just 5 minutes a day will quiet your mind and calm your senses.
#2: Exercise: Releases endorphins and focuses your mind on the present. Exercise doesn't have to be difficult or time consuming. You can stretch while sitting at your desk, or even while waiting at a traffic light. (Working Mother shares 11 exercises you can do in your chair. My favorite exercise is boxing, but I also find walking my dog, Perla, at least once a day gives me time to collect my thoughts, breathe in some fresh air, be mindful of my environment and get some gentle cardio on!
#3: Connect with others and remember to laugh: It's so easy to smile or say something nice or encouraging to the harassed holiday worker, or distracted shopper, customer or client. I make it a point to smile and wave at impatient drivers who are passing me or even honking at me. You'd be surprised how often they calm down and smile or wave back! The Mayo Clinic website says: "Social contact is a good stress reliever because it can offer distraction, provide support and help you tolerate life's up and downs. So take a coffee break with a friend, email a relative or visit your place of worship." Or, "Consider volunteering for a charitable group and help yourself while helping others."
Also, when you find yourself taking it all too seriously, take a step back, exhale and find something to laugh at. Watch your favorite comedian on YouTube, or call that friend you have who makes you laugh.
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No matter how you celebrate the season, or who you spend your season with, remember to practice self care in the midst of the madness. Be good to yourself, and then you will be ready to pay that goodness forward to others.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL MY SUBSCRIBERS & CUSTOMERS! You make me proud of what I do, and full of excitement for 2020 and what is to come for Gin Amber Beauty.