I was researching the topic of “stress free” during the holidays and came upon a 13-week holiday challenge. I began to chuckle, for we are only weeks away from Christmas. I didn’t have 13 weeks to figure out how to: be a better wife and mother, run my three businesses, manage the most beautiful venue in town, balance my volunteer hours, plan for a trip to Chicagoland, incorporate exercise, plan meals, play with my grandson, pray and honor God, keep up with social media, write out Christmas cards, shop locally for gifts, recognize and praise my staff and spread holiday cheer. That doesn’t even include time for my own reflection and well-being. I became overwhelmed with exhaustion and stress just thinking about it. I know I am not alone when it comes to dealing with all the hustle and bustle of the holidays. So what advice can I give you, my community?
Here are a few suggestions for a stress-free holiday season:
- Plan
Set aside specific days for shopping, baking, visiting friends and other activities. Plan your menus and then make your shopping list. That’ll help prevent last-minute scrambling to buy forgotten ingredients. And make sure to line up help for party prep and cleanup. Don’t forget to plan a date night with your partner or loved ones.
- Learn to Say “NO”
This is one of my biggest opportunities. I often answer with my heart and say “YES,” rather than clearly stating, “NO!” Saying yes when you should say no can leave you feeling resentful and overwhelmed. Friends and colleagues will understand if you can’t participate in every project or activity. Think first before you answer.
- Practice Healthy Habits
These include eating right, drinking enough water, getting eight hours of sleep per night, washing your hands frequently to prevent spreading bacteria and getting your physical activity in. Schedule your weekly massage therapy. You will need this self-care. Massage therapy is such a necessity. Massage therapy reduces and eliminates pain, improves joint mobility, improves circulation, improves lymphatic drainage and reduces muscular tension. The therapists at The Natural Healing Garden are skilled to listen to your needs and help you with your overall path to wellness.
- Savor a Spicy Meal
Hot foods and spices trigger the release of endorphins – the natural chemicals that trigger feelings of euphoria and well-being, according to Dr. Kulze. I have personally experienced well-being through eating different chilis, curries, soups and warm beverages that include easy-to-find spices and herbs. Should you need some coaching, feel free to contact my office and I can help you on your path to “spice.”
- Keep Up on Protein and Water
Before you attend a party or are sitting down to eat a big holiday dinner, make sure to fill up on plenty of water and lots of protein. Water fills you up and is good for you in just about every way but the other reason for drinking water is to stay hydrated. So often we eat when we are dehydrated and thirsty. Drinking water can soften the cravings and keep you from overeating! Protein serves to keep you full so that you’ll have less room for junk food and will be satisfied for longer. So, before going in for a massive scoop of stuffing, put lots of turkey and vegetables on your plate. Then have a little taste of everything else.
- Take Time for Yourself
Another area that I will focus on during the holidays. Take a walk in the sunshine, read a book, snuggle in front of the fire and listen to holiday music. Whatever you choose, remember you must honor yourself with the gift of time!
On behalf of The Natural Healing Garden team, we are grateful to have been selected as 2017 Wellness Center of the Year. Thank you Quad Cities Business News readership for voting for us! QCBN
By Debbie Maranville
Debbie Maranville is co-owner of The Natural Healing Garden/Goods from the Garden.
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