Two ideas to help you deal with holiday stress, one of which you do every day
“The world will ask you who you are, and if you do not know, the world will tell you.”- Carl Jung
Although the song says “its the most wonderful time of the year,” for some, it is also a time that brings end-of-the-year deadlines for work, projects, and CLEs; the added stress of holiday shopping, parties, and meals, along with the reminders of friends and family who are no longer with us.
All these things add up, and some of us can find ways to deal with it easily, while others have a much harder time dealing with it.
1. Do something for someone else
One way to deal with the stress is the idea of doing something for someone else.
I recently went to Home Depot with my son, as we walked towards the store, we noticed an elderly gentleman with his hatchback open and a large box in the back that he was returning. My son and I could tell right away that it was going to be a struggle for the gentleman to get the box out of the car.
We asked if he needed help and he said yes. We grabbed a cart, got the box out of the car and into the cart, and helped him wheel it into Home Depot.
He thanked us and we went on our way. We both felt great to be able to help someone out.
Take the time to hold the door for someone, help someone get their groceries to their car, volunteer at a soup kitchen, or even make a donation. Do something for someone else, it will feel good.
2. Practice breathing techniques
Another way to deal with stress is to breathe. We all breathe and the good news is that there are several techniques we can use to help us deal with stress.
Mindful breathing
A simple technique is to breathe regularly and focus on breathing in relaxation (preferably through our nose) and exhaling tension.
Physiological Sigh
Another technique is called a “physiological sigh,” which is a pattern of two inhales through our nose (one long, followed immediately by one quick), followed by an extended exhale, either through our nose or mouth.
Box Breathing
The final method is called “box breathing,” and consists of a 4-count inhale, a 4-count hold, a 4-count exhale, and a 4-count exhale.
Happy and healthy holidays to all. Forward, always!