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The holiday season is in full swing, and though it may be a time of “good cheer,” you may also be feeling worn down. In between attending multiple family gatherings to braving the shopping mall crowds, it’s important to take a step back, regroup, and recharge so you can truly enjoy the season.
You may feel you don’t have a moment to slow down, but remember: you can only give your best to others when your own cup is filled. Here are seven ways to combat your holiday stress and take care of yourself throughout this week.
1. Walk
Whether you bundle up and brave the outdoors or use a treadmill or indoor track, walking can stimulate feel-good endorphins and even help you sleep better at night. Grab a friend or family member for good conversation and laughter that bring their own added benefits!
2. Take a bath
Self-care is often associated with bubble baths – and for good reason! Soaking in the tub is proven to help calm our nervous system and can ease aching joint pain from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Add epsom salts or essential oils to your bath to assist in soaking your worries away.
3. Bake your favorite treats
We may be biased, but baking can be incredibly therapeutic. Following a recipe and getting into a rhythm of measuring, mixing, and pouring will bring a sense of ease to your mind and allow your creativity to shine! Get the kids involved for some quality time together as a family.
As an added bonus, you can give away your baked goods as holiday treats to friends and family.
4. Practice deep breathing
Deep breathing exercises are incredibly beneficial to the body and mind. One powerful exercise is deep belly breathing, where you breathe in slowly while expanding your belly and breathe out slowly while contracting your belly. Doing this for as little as five minutes can have profound effects. This breath activates your parasympathetic nervous system to create widespread relaxation in the body. Reap these rewards by using the deep belly breathing technique after the holiday gathering or before you sleep at night.
5. Dance to your favorite music
Dancing is a beautiful form of self expression that not only combats stress but brings you out of your mind and into your body. Even if you think you have two left feet, simply shaking the day off to your favorite holiday tunes allows you transform your stress into something expressive and positive. Invite your kids or family members to join in and have a stress-free dance party.
6. Remember what you’re grateful for
Practicing gratitude for what we have in life is a powerful technique to reduce stress. Your gratitudes don’t have to be specific or larger than life to matter. They could be something as simple as seeing your child laugh or walking in nature. Keep a journal or the notes feature on your phone filled with what you’re grateful for, and read them for a quick pick-me-up.
7. Treat yourself
After all the hustle and bustle of holiday celebrations this week, stop by The Cookie Cups and get a fresh-brewed cup of local coffee and one of our sweet or savory Cups. Sit in our cafe and enjoy a quiet moment to yourself with your favorite bite-size treat. Or, place an order for pickup and take your Cups to go!
Happy Holidays from all of us at The Cookie Cups!