Avoiding Stress this Holiday Season
Vincent Benjamin

It is that time of year again to spread holiday cheer. Time to listen to Christmas carols in every store and bake cookies. Time to buy presents, and wrap them. Decorate your home, go to school holiday events, and attend the office holiday party. It is truly a wonder that people have any time at all around the holidays.

That’s why December can be a stressful time for many.

Before you give in to feeling stressed and out of control this holiday season, consider these ways you can reduce your stress and be happier and healthier through the end of 2016.

  • Make healthier food choices. There will be so much food. More than any one person can be expected to eat in a sitting. With sweets sitting out at all times and massive meals presented to you, it can be hard to deny yourself the indulgence. And denying yourself will lead to less healthy behaviors, like binging. But try to focus on healthy eating habits and allow these treats to be exactly that, occasional treats.
  • Focus on helping others. Multiple studies show that volunteering your community can help reduce stress. If you spend time focusing on others over the holidays, you’ll start to reduce your own stress and feel better throughout the season. Donate time or money to a local organization that helps families or specific causes you’re passionate about. Make your heart happy.
  • Know when to say no. One trap many of us fall into this season is being constantly busy. You want to see everyone and do everything, but that will quickly wear you down. You have permission to say no to events that don’t work for you or your schedule. Make sure you have downtime just for yourself.
  • Set limits for spending. There can also be a financial burden when it comes to the holiday season. Gifts don’t have to be expensive, so don’t be afraid to set limits with your family or friends for presents. You can also agree to do other things for the season and not worry about presents at all.

What other ways can you reduce stress this holiday season? Contact our recruiting offices located in Phoenix, Denver, Los Angeles and Orange County.

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