Less Stress This Holiday

So many of us are stressed even before the holidays arrive.  Then we add in expectations of relatives, more parties to already-busy schedules, extra financial burdens -- and what do we get?  MORE STRESSED OUT!

What if you could move through the last four weeks of the year with peace, joy and satisfaction?

What if you could do the holidays on your terms, letting go all pressures (outer and inner)?

I believe it is possible.  And, here are a few ideas to help you achieve well-being as you close 2011 and start a New Year!

1. Realize that stress is a gift. It shows you where your life is out of balance. Pay attention. Look closely at what is bothering you.

2.  Rather than letting your worries swirl endlessly inside you, write them down. Go down your list one item at a time. Ask yourself, “Is there anything I can do today to change the situation?” If so, take a step of action. If not, release the challenges to God. This famous prayer from Alcoholics Anonymous is a powerful one to memorize and use regularly: “God grant me the Serenity to accept the things I cannot change; The Courage to change the things I can; and the Wisdom to know the difference.”

3. Do one moment at a time. What needs your focus RIGHT NOW? Do not let worries about something you have to face a few hours or a few weeks from now take your energy away from today. Remember, you have always found a way forward—and you always will. Pour your energy into the moment you are in.

4.  Commit yourself to finding the good. Stress is not caused by circumstances, but by our response to them. Allowing the negative to fill your mind will generate intense stress. Choosing to be hopeful, looking for a solution and taking one step at a time, will dissolve stress.


5.  Breathe, breathe and breathe some more. When under pressure, we tend to hold our breath and tense our bodies. Change your energy. Take a moment to sit quietly and breathe deeply. Breathe in peace. Let go worry. Close your eyes. Let the tension drain out of your body and into the ground beneath you. Consciously relax every muscle from the top of your head, through your neck and shoulders, your torso, your legs, even those little toes you have.

6.  Find a healthy outlet. Engage in creative activities that allow self-expression. Listen to music that soothes and uplifts you. Dance. Draw. Write in a journal. Take a walk. Play or watch your favorite sport.

7.  Seek help. We all find ourselves in difficult situations. It is a sign of strength and wisdom to ask for help when you need it. If you have stressed to the point you feel physically ill, seek medical attention. If you find yourself unable to shake off anxiety, depression or panic, seek out a trusted friend or counselor. Sometimes a listening ear is all we need to release the inner pressure.

You can do it -- pick 3 of these helpful tips and put them to practice regularly as you navigate the holidays.
 
You DESERVE to feel well!
Make this a priority.
 
With a holiday smile,
Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
 
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/