Let Go of Stress and Enjoy the Magic of the Holidays
RHG Magazine TM - Novemver 2021 © All rights reserved.
Feeling joy is such a glorious experience. It can bring you to a place of gratitude for what you have and open you up to the wonder and delight of life’s possibilities. Are you feeling the joy of the holiday season?
I’m all about joy, especially during the holidays. I love the spirit of the season — the colors, the lights, the sparkle. You can see the joy of the season in kids’ smiles. Let’s share the magic!
Stress Steals the Holiday Magic
Unfortunately, the holiday season isn’t only filled with magic. This is an extra stressful time for most of us. And this year the stress level is exceptionally high. The COVID-19 pandemic doesn’t seem to be going away, which really messes with our plans for holiday celebrations, travel, and family visits. We are all feeling “decision fatigue” and an overall loss of vitality. Too much computer time, not enough sleep, disrupted routines — the list goes on and on.
Stress can reduce your quality of life, and it can impact your relationships. It’s understandable if you’re having trouble expressing your emotions and feeling overwhelmed. If it’s tough to be positive, that will show up in how you are with people, whether in person or virtually. Maybe that’s why it can be so tricky during the holidays to be with your loved ones. Stress makes family dynamics even more challenging.
Be Mindful of What’s in Your Heart
No matter how hard an experience
may be, honestly expressing your
emotions not only relieves your
mental pressure valve, it also helps
your body. Biting your tongue could
cause a clenched, tight jaw. Holding
your breath can cause tightness in
your chest and a constricted
respiratory system. Swallowing your
words can create digestive issues,
like a sour stomach. These familiar
expressions show how much the body
can be affected by not sharing what is on your mind. When you share what is in your heart, you and your body will be happier, healthier and feel more joy.
You Can Choose to Enjoy Yourself
You don’t have to let that runaway train of stress crush your joy. Instead, try approaching the holidays mindfully and purposefully. You can choose to do things differently this season. Acknowledging how you’re feeling is the first step to reducing your anxiety and tension from stress. Fortunately, it is possible for you to prepare for the added stress coming your way by practicing nurturing self-care.