The holidays can be a very stressful time of year.

The shopping and crowds – The back-to-back diet-busting parties – The seemingly endless piles of work and deadlines at the office – The financial responsibility of having to play both mom/dad and Santa Claus.  The list goes on and on.

Whatever it is that may be keeping you from the holiday cheer, try using these helpful stress-relieving tips.  You’re bound to find one that does the trick.

Holiday Stress-Busting Tips

Get active – Exercising makes you feel good and allows you to eat the occasional holiday sweets.

Eat right – Fruit and vegetables are great, and omega-3 acids are known to reduce symptoms of stress.   Drink green tea.

Laugh more – Laughter releases endorphins that improve mood and decreases levels of stress-causing hormones.

Connect with others – Call a friend: a reassuring voice, even for a minute, can put everything into perspective.

Assert yourself – Have confidence.  Learn to say no.  Delegate.

Try yoga/meditation – These systems of mindfulness incorporate physical and mental exercises that prevent stress from rising.

Get enough sleep – Although stress and sleep may be a vicious cycle, try to get 7-8 hours a night.

Keep a journal – Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a good release for otherwise built-up emotions.

Listen to music – relaxing classical music, your favorite artist, or Jingle Bells may do the trick.

Breathe deeply – deep breathing oxygenates your blood, helps center your body, and clears your mind.  Take 5.

Be present – Slow down and enjoy the present.

Be grateful – Being grateful for your blessings cancels out negative thoughts and worries.

Remember, most insurance plans reset in the new year.  If you haven’t made the most of your available benefits, call 635-8182 for a maintenance visit before the New Year.