SEASONAL: Ways to beat holiday stress

The holidays are famously a stressful time for everyone. Family gatherings, hosting events and planning dinners all adds up to an overwhelming experience—no matter how much you love everyone!

During these hectic weeks, it’s important to slow down and take care of yourself. Here are some exercises, physical and mental, that can help.

1. Try yoga
Moving your body reduces stress and improves your mood. A low-intensity workout like yoga will not only improve your overall health, but will also stop your mind from racing with all the holiday prep.

Read more here: 

• 7 yoga poses for beginners
• Yoga basics: Poses and health benefits
• Facial massage: The new yoga for your face
• How to practice yogic breathing
   

2. Practice mindfulness
Research shows that meditating is good for the body and for the mind, so why not take five minutes a day to get better at it? This will help you focus on other things besides meal prep and last-minute gifts.

Read more here:
 

• 5 mini mindfulness meditations for everyday scenarios
• How to stop being negative
• How to put yourself first
• The best apps for meditation

3. Go for a walk
Walking is considered to be somewhat of a “miracle drug,” since it’s an easy way to reset your mind and energize your spirit. Going for a walk during a stressful day can boost your mood and get out any anxious energy.

4. Eat mood-boosting foods
Food has long been linked to your overall health and emotional state, so it’s important to watch what you put in your body between feasts. When reaching for a snack, try one of these foods that will improve your mood.

5. Sip on a superfood latte
Instead of recharging with caffeine between entertaining your guests—which will eventually negatively impact your sleep—make yourself a superfood latte with one of these healthy powders.

6. Get some rest
Although all of the above are important, you can’t fully beat stress if your body doesn’t get the rest it needs. Make sure to get a full night of restful sleep between your busy days in order to recharge.