How to keep calm during Christmastime
We've entered into the craziest time of the year, and some of us love it while others dread it. For my husband and I, we LOVE this season. We love Christmas decorations, music, shopping, and the general splendor, hustle, and bustle. But, I DO get overwhelmed with the crowds and sometimes, the introvert in me takes over and I just want to hide in the corner, drink tea, and be away from the stress. No wonder we all get sick during this season too! Our schedules are jam packed and we go from event to event, taking care of everyone else but forgetting about ourselves in the process.
Instead, let's get mindful this season, keep calm, and really ENJOY the season for what it is! Here are some tips that I have used to make sure I take care of myself while staying calm and enjoying the season! I thought I'd pass them on to you all today...enjoy!
1. Get enough rest. Make sure you are scheduling some down time for yourself and your family amidst the holiday parties and shopping trips! Enjoy some time at home watching Christmas movies, enjoying your tree, and just taking it easy!
2. Keep moving. Get into a routine of being active every day, whether that's an organized fitness program you are following (these help me stay on track!) or going on regular walks on your lunch break. Moving every day will boost your mood and help stabilize your anxiety, plus it will be much needed alone time during this busy season!
3. Nourish yourself well. Make sure you eat plenty of whole foods and tons of vitamin C rich foods (berries, oranges, vegetables, etc) to boost your immune system. The last thing you need is the stress of being sick before your family get-togethers! Make sure you are eating at least three meals a day, plenty of whole foods, and making your meals as colorful as possible.
4. Keep a thankfulness journal. Every night as you wind down, write down 3-5 things you are grateful for that happened that day. This will help you be mindful during this season and really focus on gratitude. God has blessed us with so much, so why not take some time every evening to reflect and tell Him "thank you?" And try not to make these generic such as, "I'm thankful for my house or food." I mean those things are great, but how about really reflecting on your day and the specifics of that particular day, such as "I'm thankful that my boss bought us all lunch today" or "I'm thankful my husband washed the dishes after dinner." Not that I'm hinting at anything....ahem Vasken ahem ;)
5. Be present with those around you. Lastly, make sure that when you are with loved ones, really BE with them. Don't think about your to-do list, how messy your house is, or how many presents you still have to buy. I am so guilty of this, but I'm really trying to be more mindful and in the moment. Be with the ones you love and appreciate your time together while celebrating the birth of our savior, because these moments are truly the only ones that matter!
So keep calm and get excited, because CHRISTMAS is coming!