The holidays are here in full force – a time known for its busy nature that can lead to some serious stress. You likely have gone to several special engagements and parties already with more to come, a long list of people to whom you need to send holiday cards, and the daunting task of braving mall crowds to shop for your loved ones. All of this, on top of normal everyday life. It can be overwhelming, to say the least.

I want to share with you some of my personal favorite ways to navigate this busy, stressful time and make this season more enjoyable and a time to make fond memories.

Here are a few ways that help me stay sane…

Focus on being mindful and present. It’s almost reflexive to pick up my phone and scroll through Facebook or check emails when I have a free moment. Do you do the same?

One way I dodge this is to leave my electronics in another room. Don’t allow yourself the temptation to pick up your phone and disengage from talking with your loved ones. When I’m feeling particularly scatter-brained or overwhelmed, what helps ground me is focusing on my senses. What do I smell? Hear? Feel?

Stop and think through what’s going on around you at that very minute. It will bring you into the moment. This is a wonderful tool to dial in and be present. And a great tool to use year-round, not just during the holidays!

Forget about perfection. A lot of the stress we put on ourselves this season lies in the notion that we expect things to be perfect, from decorations to family. Perfection would be awesome, of course – but putting your entire extended family in one house is bound to have something go a little awry or even crazy. Dropping the expectation of perfection allows you to be prepared and calm when something springs up. Joy can be found in each situation, so even when things don’t go exactly as planned – spend your energy to find gratitude in your circumstances and enjoy as much of your time as possible. Tis the season!

 Maintain an attitude of gratitude. Focus on a truly grateful heart and find the beauty happening right around you, whether it’s the smile of a child, an amazing sunset, or simply time with the people you cherish. To be grateful in your everyday life will help you appreciate the small things and not miss the sweet moments of life. I encourage my clients to keep a gratitude journal and write down three things each day for which they are thankful. Also, if you are in a stressful situation and begin to feel frustrated, focus on several things for which you are thankful. It will help to “reset” your mood.

Find time to move. It’s incredibly important to keep movement in your schedule, no matter how hectic life gets. Even if it’s just a brisk walk after lunch or dinner – make it a habit to bundle up in your favorite scarf and winter coat to go for a walk either alone to clear your mind or with someone whose company you enjoy. Be sure to get time outside in nature, breathing fresh air, while burning off calories and keeping your heart rate up.

You can also check out my YouTube page and grab a quick HIIT workout in 10- 15 minutes here!

What are your favorite ways to get some movement in during the cold months?
I enjoy getting bundled up and head out for a run or fast walk. I hope these ideas help to de-stress your holidays.

I want to take a moment and wish each of you a very warm and wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year!