How to De-stress After the Holiday Season Naturally

You’ve enjoyed the wonders of the magical time of the year, with the cities decorated in celebratory lights, and festive fairs at every corner. But are you facing again the stress that comes after the holiday season? The rush at work, hectic traffic, crowded malls, and the desire to make the most of the holidays are all factors that can trigger stress and anxiety after the New Year.

As we bid farewell to the passing year, let’s step into new beginnings stress-free! With some simple, practical tips, you can let go of any troubles and worries weighing you down:

Identify the causes of your stress

Do you know what stresses you out, what triggers anxiety? How do you react to stress? When you have the answers, you can start looking for natural solutions.

Take care of yourself

Learn to recognize your stress triggers, including financial pressures or family demands, so that you can deal with them. With careful planning and a healthy dose of optimism, you can find lots of joy and peace after the holidays.

Whenever you’re feeling stressed, call a timeout and spend some time on self-care – have a cup of tea, take a bubble bath, schedule a massage — whatever it is, enjoy the moment and pamper yourself. A daily self-care routine is essential to enjoy some well-deserved serene moments.

Give the gifts of memorable experiences

Don’t get stressed by looking for last-minute gifts in crowded stores. People tend to forget the objects, but the experience remains – a concert, a relaxing massage, a day at a spa, a board game evening with friends or family – those memories last longer than the 7th sweater or the 25th scented candle.

Meditate

Meditation involves clearing mind chatter and repeatedly bringing yourself back to the present moment. Meditation increases endorphin levels and reduces harmful stress. I have been joining a meditation group online at Self Realization Fellowship. This way, I can meditate with thousands of people around the world – and that is so fulfilling. There are various types of mediation; you can surely find the one that suits your needs and personality.

Exercise

After the holiday gatherings filled with celebratory meals, the first thing you want to do is to hit the gym. Exercising is an excellent way to stay in shape and manage holiday stress.

It can be anything that gets you moving; whichever form of exercise gets you motivated – pilates, thai box, dancing, yoga – you will get many benefits. It will make you feel (and look) better and improve your physical health and well-being. You can join a group to get to know others who share similar interests in the activities you enjoy. It’s a fun way to combine exercise with making new friends.

Laugh

Research has shown that laughing can decrease stress hormone levels. Laugh every day; it’s one of the best natural remedies you can find to beat the holiday stress.

Here is a simple laughter yoga to practice each morning in front of the bathroom mirror: make the H sound followed by each vowel sound three times, A-E-I-O-U. Say it out loud: Ha, Ha, Ha, He, He, Hi, Hi, Ho, Ho, Hu, Hu, and I can assure you, in a few seconds, you’ll be laughing out loud.

Get outdoors

If you’re stressed out by the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, head outside to the nearest park, forest, or beach. Spending time in nature can boost your endorphin and serotonin hormone levels, reducing your cortisol (known as the stress hormone) level.

You can squeeze in a 15-minute walk even in your most hectic schedule, either first thing in the morning, during your lunch break, or when you get home from work. A short walk in nature will clear your head and help you stay in shape both mentally and physically.

Be useful

We all need help sometimes, and the arrival of the New Year is best time for lending a helping hand. The holiday season can be challenging for many people for various reasons. If you’re feeling lonely, volunteering can be an excellent way to do some good while making new friends.

Practice gratitude

When it comes to stress relief, there’s no better way than practicing gratitude. Many scientific studies show that those who consciously focus on gratitude experience better physical health and emotional well-being than those who don’t.

These are some of the natural ways to de-stress after the holiday season. Implement the ones you prefer in your daily schedule, and may you enjoy a peaceful and blessed New Year!

About the author:

Shawna Allard is a gifted psychic medium and intuitive reader, spiritual coach, public speaker, award-winning author, and founder of the Divine Knowing Institute, offering seekers spiritual guidance and insight on developing and strengthening their intuition.

The Holiday Blues: How to Recognize and Overcome Them

It’s the most wonderful time of the year… or at least the song says so. There are gifts, ornaments, Christmas trees, and the inevitable Christmas movies to set your expectations high. What’s behind all that pizazz is a lot of stress about making everything perfect, buying the ideal gifts, spending a lot of money, coping with difficult memories, and being lonely or in poor company. The idealized image of a cozy family celebration may not be realistic for many people. Even for those with happy families, the pressure of the holidays can take its toll.

So, do you have the holiday blues? Let’s talk about how to recognize this condition and overcome it.

What Are the Holiday Blues?

While the holiday blues don’t present a clinical diagnosis, the specific period when the condition arises and the stressors contributing to its development make it a unique phenomenon. Furthermore, prolonged anxiety and sadness can contribute to long-term depression or make it even harder for those with mental illness.

The specific stressors related to holiday depression are spending more money than usual, feeling pressured to be in the holiday spirit, and having more social obligations as well as more intense travel plans. Loneliness and loss are also linked to holiday depression.

How to Recognize the Holiday Blues

Identifying the signs of holiday depression requires taking a break, a step back, and a good long look at yourself. Are there some physical changes, such as tired-looking skin or under-eye bags? Even some changes in clothing and self-care might suggest that you are coping with more than you can take right now.

As for your emotions, ask yourself — how are you feeling? Are you easily irritable, often tearful, or sad? Do you have trouble focusing? Are you tired? Do you feel worthless and unable to maintain social interactions? A decline in the quality of work and lack of productivity as the holidays are approaching could also be signs that this season is not so jolly for you.

How to Overcome the Holiday Blues

It is important to know that the holiday blues are not a definite condition. You can combat this mood by making some simple changes to your lifestyle and working on your coping mechanisms. Here are some tips that could help you.

Get Enough Sleep

No matter how stressed you are, things can get only worse if you don’t get enough sleep. Adults should try to get between seven and nine hours of sleep every night. To achieve that, you need to create an optimal sleeping environment. Start with a good mattress that doesn’t have fiberglass to avoid skin irritations, and get a neck-supporting pillow. Clear your room of digital distractions and block the outside light. Ease yourself into sleep with a soothing routine.

Don’t Use Alcohol as a Coping Mechanism

During the holidays, many people turn to alcohol to numb their feelings or get themselves into the right mood for socializing. This can be counterproductive since alcohol can worsen your feelings of depression and anxiety. Excessive alcohol use can harm your sleep too.

Watch What You’re Eating

Splurging on treats is a holiday tradition we all love and cherish. However, all that festive food is usually fatty, salty, or sugary. These foods can affect your mental health. Try to limit holiday indulgence to family dinners. Make sure to eat healthy meals when you don’t have social events on your schedule.

It’s Okay to Say “No”

From gift-giving to family gatherings, we often hold ourselves to high standards, which can result in feelings of failure. Be realistic about what you can and cannot do. You don’t have to attend every gathering or buy a gift for everyone. Saying “no” to protect yourself is the healthiest form of self-care, and people who love and support you will understand that.

Don’t Isolate Yourself

While you don’t have to attend every event, you shouldn’t isolate yourself. The holiday blues will make you want to hide at home and see no one. Surround yourself with a “support team” of friends and family who make you feel pleasant and secure. Share your fears and worries with them and ask them to be there for you.

Set a Budget

The financial strain is a large part of the holiday stress. Don’t feel like you have to go overboard for meal prepping, gifts, and decorations. Set a realistic budget and stick with it. Consider making homemade gifts or organizing a secret Santa so that you have to buy one gift for one family member instead of buying five, six, or seven.

Give Back

Volunteering is a good way to do something good and feel better about yourself. It is also a way to connect with others if you are feeling lonely. Some volunteering ideas you can try are donating, reading to kids, organizing a fundraiser, serving food at a shelter, socializing with people in a nursing home, etc.

Spend Less Time on Social Media

During the holidays, people have more free time, and they spend a lot of it on social media. They post their picture-perfect Christmas trees, family dinners, and families in silly sweaters. This can be overwhelming for someone experiencing the blues. It’s best to just minimize your time on socials altogether and spend it doing more of the things you genuinely enjoy.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

The holiday blues might sound to you like a silly reason to consult a mental health specialist, but it is not. If you can’t cope with the overwhelming feeling of sadness, don’t be afraid to ask for help. A counselor can guide you through this period and help you build your own coping mechanisms.

In Closing

The holidays can be a stressful time for all of us. This year, let’s try to reframe our collective perspective. Take extra care of yourself in this season and do more of the things you enjoy. Try to build some good habits or traditions and cast away those traditions that aren’t serving you. Let’s use this time to remember the things we’re grateful for.

About The Author

Sarah is a life enjoyer, positivity seeker, and a curiosity enthusiast. She is passionate about an eco-friendly lifestyle and adores her cats. She is an avid reader who loves to travel when time allows.

Turn the frown upside down: beat the holiday blues

For many people, Holidays are the opportunity to spend time with family, relax, get in that unexplainable Christmas spirit of hope and firm belief of a better tomorrow. On the other hand, there are people who are mortified by the fact the Holiday season is just around the corner. Being unemployed, having a small salary, not having or being apart from the family, a recap of the year and not having the results you expected, can throw one in a state of depression.

2020 was a cruel year worldwide, and though there is some light at the end of the tunnel, we still can’t be sure when will the “new normal” lifestyle be just regular normal, one we took for granted. People struggled with sadness, blues, anxiety and depression for most of the year, and mental states of so many are as fragile as never before. If you have serious problems, please call local medical facilities and reach for help. Trust the professional. If you just feel blue, and the pressure of this year has been a bit too much, maybe this list can help ease your troubles.

Talk that talk

If there is anything, and I do mean anything making you sad, or you feel lonely, talk to someone. Anyone. Family, friends, help centers. Even pets! Cats can be mean, but dogs will listen. Kidding, animals are great 🙂 One of the things we mastered this year is distance communication. Use one of many apps that provide group chats, and talk, share. It’s not easy being apart from the people you love, but it doesn’t mean you should lose touch with them. For example, since this pandemic started, my friends and I started a movie club. Once a week, we choose a movie to watch and discuss it. This has been our little ritual of keeping our minds sane, and changing the topic from sickness and death, to something lighter. Sure, we have coffee sessions on a regular basis, but this special Friday night date is our way of unwinding together.

Exercise

For real. Channel negative energy into a positive one. We don’t even have to talk about all the health benefits you will experience. Or that there is a chance you will look hot as hell after this pandemic ends. Think about endorphins. This hormone is a positive trigger that makes your body feel good, which leads to a state of euphoria. Now, no one said you should look like Chris Hemsworth (you can if you want to), just move your body so your mind can move as well. There are so many tutorials and videos nowadays, it’s almost impossible not to find something that will keep you busy. Dance, do yoga, some cardio, pilates and shake it off!

Cook

Make a list of your favorite dishes and start cooking. The spices, the smells, the tastes. If you don’t know how to cook, this is a perfect way to master it. If you do know, push your limits. Pick dishes from different cultures and upgrade your game. It’s definitely much better for you if you prepare your meals than ordering fast food. You can even find healthier versions of your favorite fast foods.

Don’t force yourself into feeling jolly and merry

Faking feelings is the worst thing you can do to yourself. If you don’t feel this Christmas vibe, don’t pretend. Be grumpy, be sad. Try finding out the reason behind these feelings. It might take some time. Once you find the cause, try to find a solution. Write it on a paper, make a mind-map. Are you the problem? Can you change something? Do you want to change it? Why not? Are you scared or just stubborn? The key to happiness is in your hands, but the path might be a long one. Don’t fear the change, it helps you grow. Learn about yourself. Stop fulfilling other people’s expectations. Hey, if you feel like a couch potato today, be the best potato you can be!

Binge Watch

Pick favorite movies, tv shows and documentaries and watch them again and again. Make a list of all the shows you said you will watch, but you never did. With so many platforms to choose, there is no reason not to do this. Currently, I am rewatching Sons of Anarchy with the same feelings I had when I watched them for the first time. The movie I would recommend for endless laughs is Pop star (Never stop never stopping). The Lonely Island crew made this almost satirical comedy a few years ago, and it shows how ridiculous the world of instant celebrities really is, while at the same time makes you laugh so much your stomach hurts. I would also recommend Our world documentary. BBC and Sir David Attenborough did a marvelous job. The colors are beautiful, and you will learn a lot. My kids adore it!

I hope this list gave some ideas to help yourself when you are feeling down. Remember, you have every right not to feel peachy every single day. It’s not your fault, there is nothing wrong with you. You need time for your emotions, you need to process them. It’s not selfish to take time and focus on yourself. It’s mental health. I will leave you with wise words of Billy Chapata:

“You bloom differently when you’re not focusing on anyone else’s bloom but your own”

About The Author

Morgan Rose Elliott is an aromatherapist, yoga instructor, animal lover, a happily married mother of three. She enjoys reading biographies and writing poems, sunny days on the beach and any shape and form of vanilla. Crazy about the ’80s, her favorite band is Duran Duran (although kids prefer Franz Ferdinand, and the husband Blink182) and she is obsessed with Netflix original Stranger things. Follow her on twitter

Your Guide To Not Being Lonely This Holiday Season

Bah Humbug

In conversation the other day, someone told me they didn’t “need” a Christmas tree in their house. After all, nobody would even be there for Christmas. Being the Christmas fanatic that I am, clearly I immediately thought otherwise. Also being the serial sarcastic woman that I am, I jumped on Amazon and quickly ordered a teeny tiny Charlie Brown tree. You know, the signature 2-foot tree with a few pathetic branches, followed by a single red ornament and a little blue cloth to cover up the wobbly wooden stand. And although you could call this a compromise, (based on said conversation), let’s be honest. I made this decision solely on my own and I’m not sorry. Here’s why….

That Pitiful Tree And All It Symbolizes

As I set up this tiny, pitiful tree, I found myself sitting in the floor. Completely alone, and laughing. I laughed so hard I cried. Then I cried, and boy did I cry so more. This pathetic little tree had so much symbolism in it. There it stood, the signature 2-foot tree with a few pathetic branches, followed by a single red ornament and a little blue cloth to cover up the wobbly wooden stand and I thought to myself- YOU’RE NOT ALONE.

We all know what it’s like to feel unloved. That hollowing feeling right in the pit of your stomach of being pushed away by people you love, had broken up with, or simply left out. You’re left feeling completely isolated, unwanted, and useless.

I want you to know, you are not alone. I understand the feeling of waking up and feeling as though there isn’t place in this world of 7 billion people for little ole’ you. It can feel like your world as you know it is quickly closing in around you. But consider this, of those 7 billion people in this world you are given chances. 7 billion chances to feel and show love.

Trust Yourself

You feel unloved because you gave someone power to make you feel tat way. The power to control your heart. And when you’re being treated poorly, trust and believe that there is someone out there who will treat you so much better. And that the first person you should go to is yourself. Try taking back the power anyone has of controlling your heart.

Love yourself

So you aren’t quite there today to look yourself in the eye and tell yourself these things? That’s okay, you don’t have to be all the way there, it’s always a winding road you’ll travel along through life. However, take the initial turn in life knowing that there truly are people out there who you will be there for you. People who will listen to you and those you can lean on who know just what you’re going through.

Regain Personal Power in 10 Steps

Whatever it is that is making you feel unloved, unworthy, or lonely, please know that you are and always will be worth it. And that you are strong enough to stand up and get through it.

1. Let it go.

2. Remember this will only make you stronger.

3. Love yourself.

4. Know that you are deserving of love.

5. Love freely.

6. Be brave.

7. Be courageous.

8. Do some soul searching.

9. Be better than those who hurt you.

10. JUST KEEP GOING!

So go on, be strong. Be fearless. Dry your eyes. Get up. Get yourself through it. Sometimes you just need a little bit of love. You are not alone.

28 Holidays to Celebrate in February When You’re Absolutely Sick of Valentine’s

At first glance, February doesn’t have a whole lot to offer. It’s short, contains an over-commercialized holiday, and was probably the most confusing month to spell as a kid Add some fun to some or all of the 28 days this month by celebrating one of these non-Valentine days.

February 1- National Get Up Day

That goal that you’re about to give up on? Give yourself a renewed sense that you can do it… and then do it. Take a good look at how successful your New Year’s resolutions have been so far and rewrite them if you have to.

February 2- National Groundhog Day

At least we still have one thing to believe in (whatever, Tooth Fairy and Santa). Whether or not he’s actually right, you know you are just a little curious to find out if he sees his shadow.

February 3- National Wear Red Day

This day was created in support of the American Heart Association. Plus, it’s a scientific fact that people are believed to be more attractive when wearing red. Win-win.

February 4- National Thank a Mail Carrier Day

They might bring your bills, but they also bring your packages and magazine subscriptions. Slip a note in your mailbox thanking them for what they do.

February 5- National Shower With a Friend Day

What happens in the shower, stays in the shower. Or maybe moves to the bedroom.

February 6- National Frozen Yogurt Day

The fro-yo trend may have died down like 2 years ago, but any excuse to load up on some of that creamy goodness with a pound of toppings is a good one.

February 7- National Send a Card to a Friend Day

It doesn’t have to be a Valentine’s Day Card. A nice little note with an inside joke or thoughtful message will make someone’s day.

February 8- National Kite-Flying Day

If it’s too cold outside where you are, channel your inner child and play a board game, or actually fly a kite if it happens to be nice enough. You could also stay inside and watch some Mary Poppins. Or read Kite Runner.

February 9- National Bagel Day AND National Pizza Day

Any excuse to eat all the carbs. Plus, some places might do free or discounted bagels and pizza!

February 10- National Cream Cheese Brownie Day

You could add cream cheese frosting to dirt and it would taste amazing. Make yourself a batch of brownies.

February 11- National Make-a-Friend Day

That seemingly cool chick who lives down the hall or sits behind you in class? Now’s the time to strike up a conversation!

February 12- National Plum Pudding Day

Do people actually eat this? Do yourself a favor and just pick up a box of instant chocolate/vanilla/pistachio pudding. Holidays are the best when you have your own traditions.

February 13- National Clean out Your Computer Day

Those old pictures of you and your high school ex? DELETE THEM ALREADY. 5,200 unopened emails? Time to get rid of them.

February 14- National Organ Donor Day

Other things happen on the 14th! If you aren’t already registered to donate your organs in case something happens, consider it! Having the ability to potentially save another person’s life is amazing.

February 15- Singles Awareness Day

AKA go out and buy all the clearance Valentines Day candy day…whether you are single or not.

February 16- National Do A Grouch a Favor Day

We all know one or two of these people.Help them out with something, and it could be just what was needed to turn their frown upside down.

February 17- National Cabbage Day

Try a veggie you haven’t tried in a while but haven’t been too fond of ever. You never know…Plus, I promise you can wash the taste out of your mouth tomorrow.

February 18- National Drink Wine Day

Not much different than any other day, really

February 19- National Mint Chocolate Day

Take it in whatever form you like it.

February 20- National Love Your Pet Day

Give some extra special attention to that pup, kitten, fish, or whatever critter you may have.

February 21- National Sticky Bun Day

Sounds like a great excuse to eat a brunch-type meal…even though it’s not the weekend.

February 22- National Margarita Day

You know what to do. This month just keeps getting better. (See February 24 and celebrate them together)

February 23- National Toast Day

The best part about this day is that you can eat the toast however you like it. Peanut butter and pomegranate seeds (personal fave), Nutella, butter, straight up dry crusty bread? The world’s your oyster…or toaster.

February 24- National Tortilla Chip Day

Perfect with some queso and those margaritas!

February 25- National Chocolate Covered Nut Day

Just don’t mistake the chocolate covered raisins for peanuts. Buzz-kill.

February 26- National Tell a Fairytale Day

Have yourself a Disney movie marathon.

February 27- National Polar Bear Day

YouTube “Baby polar bears.” No disappointment.

February 28- National Floral Design Day

Especially if you had no reason to celebrate Valentine’s Day, go pick yourself up a bouquet of pretty flowers. You deserve them.