November has definitely arrived, and it came with physical and emotional holiday baggage. It generally starts with busier work weeks and ends with last-minute holiday shopping.
Today I’m going to give you 10 surefire ways to relieve stress during the holiday season!
1 | Take a hike! I don’t mean that in a harsh way, but literally put on your favorite sneakers and get moving in the morning. Due to the fall weather changes, the weather in the morning is less humid and the atmosphere makes a great start for any busy day.
Motivation: A killer playlist! You can make your own or snag one from Apple Music or Spotify.
2 | Feeling overwhelmed? Find a nice stopping point, kick back and watch a holiday favorite! There’s nothing that helps me more when I’m stressed than getting a good laugh in! All of the Home Alone movies get me in a better mood.
Motivation: Before you start a project, plan a good stopping point. This way you have your break to look forward to!
3 | Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Get the family involved! We all have the tendency to try play superwoman during the holiday season. Having someone help you not only lessens your stress, but it also gives you a chance to bond with those you love.
Motivation: Look on Pinterest and find some cute recipes or decoration DIY’s to do with the family or something that adds a little romance for you and your significant other while still getting things done. Wine tasting while gift wrapping sounds good to me!
4 | Relax with the girls! When engulfed in things to do, you sometimes forget that you’re not the only one who is struggling. Phone some friends or your best friend for a spa date! This will give you a chance to relax and maybe even be each other’s therapist for the day. Nothing makes dishpan hands look better than a fresh manicure.
Motivation: Check out the new holiday colors from Essie and OPI. That will definitely get you in the mood to head to the nail salon!
5 | Honey I’m home! It’s time to get a good cuddle session in. Grab your boo and snuggle up! Hugging, kissing and other physical acts increase oxytocin levels. This reduces blood pressure, stress and anxiety.
Motivation: Send your love a cute/steamy text mid day to prepare them for later activities. This will also let them know that you were thinking about them, and that is a pick me up for anyone!
6 | Light a candle! This might seem so simple, but it really does work. My favorite candle has always been the Mahogany Teakwood candle by White Barn. You can find them at Bath and Body Works. The scent reminds me of cologne, and it’s so soothing! The scent instantly gets me in a good mood.
Motivation: Kill two birds with one stone! Find a scent you love and play it up in your holiday decor this season. You are now more relaxed and have a new decorative twist! Most three wick candles have beautiful containers that match any aesthetic.
7 | Warm it up! For most of us, from birth to adulthood, there is one thing that stays consistent, and that is the love of wrapping up in a blanket! Grab your favorite blanket or comforter and throw it in the dryer just long enough for it to hold and some heat. While it’s in the dryer set up your area of relaxation. Once you pull it out of the dryer, immediately wrap yourself in it. Kick back and relax! Blankets are a sense of security. The warmth will be soothing and help reduce anxiety.
8 | Spend time with your pet! Take a moment to relax with them or take them along for the ride while running a few errands. This will give you some company and get them out of the house for a bit.
Motivation: Grabbing something from Starbucks or Dutch Bros? Take your dog with you! Puppuccinos are a real thing. It’s whipped cream to us and heaven to them.
9 | Everybody clap your hands! I️ know this one may sound a bit strange, but it definitely works! Clapping your hands increases circulation and activates receptors in your hands. This fires up parts of the brain and gets that noodle going!
Motivation: If you don’t want to just stand around clapping, bring in the little ones! Grab your child, cousin, niece or nephew and teach them how to play Patty Cake or Miss Mary Mack. This will be amusing for the both of you and 9 time out of 10 will make you laugh. #winning
10 | Take a hot bath/shower! This one is a must for me and many others. Hot water will ease your mind and also soothe stiff/sore muscles. Grab your favorite bath bomb and soak your stress away.
Motivation: Drop by your local Lush location or visit Lush.com and load up on all the bath goodies! My favorite bath bombs right now are: Shoot for the Stars and Sex Bomb.
What are your favorite ways to tackle holiday stress? Leave a comment below!
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