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Health & Fitness

10 More Ways to Reduce Your Holiday Stress

10 ways to reduce holiday stress

More Ways to Reduce Your Holiday Stress

The holidays are upon us once again, and with them the holiday blues and stress that come with these days.  Here are some things each of us can do to reduce our holiday stresses or cope with them better.

Talk with friends and family on the phone or face to face.  Talk with other people who suffer from back pain or similar conditions.  Sharing helps us know we’re not alone.

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  1. See your family doctor or therapist-there may be a physiological disorder or psychological component to certain pains which medication or counseling can support.
  2. Improve your diet and exercise regularly, at least on non-party days.  Don’t stress about weight gain at gathering or parties, live a little and on other days seek moderation in diet and regular cardiovascular exercise.
  3. Seek sunshine-the real thing is best.  Get outdoors when possible or consider purchasing full spectrum lighting.
  4. Consider your own needs and don’t be the ultimate people-pleaser.  Choose what’s important and don’t overextend yourself.
  5. Plan a small gathering of friends or neighbors such as a dinner or wine-party.  Have fun!
  6. Cook, buy yourself some new music and/or new books to have on hand.  Do what you enjoy!
  7. Meditate or practice relaxation.  Sometimes the simplest approach to feeling better is to do less.
  8. Get enough sleep.  Responsibilities are ever present, no pun intended yet not getting enough sleep affects both mood and energy.

10.  Honor your own feelings.  Accepting what works and changing what doesn’t can have profound affects upon your outlook.  Pay attention to what your body is telling you, and if necessary, seek the help you need.

 And consider offering a smile, lending a hand, letting the other person drive in front of you and appreciate that we are all a part of a bigger arena called life!  Have a very productive, fun and joyous holiday season.

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