The Holidays

Are the fast approaching holidays freaking you out? For a lot of people, the holidays are the most stressful time of the year, BUT it doesn’t have to be that way. There are ways to minimize the chaos and actually enjoy yourself…

Okay, so Thanksgiving is already THIS week! Like, days away. How crazy is that..is it just me or did the holidays come at super speed this year? Anyways, the holidays are officially upon us but don’t freak out!  

I get it. There’s so much to plan, so much to get done, so much travelling, so much money spent. All of those things converge to turn most people into an overwhelmed stress ball of a mess. I’ve been there. BUT there are things you can do to help keep stress levels low and actually enjoy yourself and your time with loved ones.

Don’t worry, I’m not gonna suggest skipping the rolls and killing yourself to push through an intense workout!

(Side note: I will NEVER suggest skipping the rolls 😛 )

1. Make time for gratitude.

I know it’s the name of the holiday but with so much to get done and stress levels high, so may people forget what it’s really all about. Schedule some time to sit and really take inventory of everything that you have to be grateful for. Focusing on gratitude will help keep things in perspective and keep your mind in a positive space. Gratitude and any negative emotion can’t coexist at the same moment. So if you’re feeling fear, anger, overwhelm, stress–just stop and take a minute to be grateful.  

2. Move.

Just move. I’m not talking about a crazy, intense workout or even your normal workout, you just gotta get your body moving. Even if that’s just dancing around the house, do it. The movement will help keep you feeling energized and happy. Aim to workout or move early in the day before your to-do list can get in the way of your time to move. Get it done early and reap the benefits all day long.

3. Sleep.

With so much to do, people usually end up skimping on sleep. Don’t do it! Get your sleep. It’s so important–for your physical health AND your sanity. It’s crazy the wonders that a good nights sleep can do. During especially stressful times, sleep is more important than ever.

4. Drink the water.

Don’t forget to drink lots of water, before your meal and throughout the day. It’ll keep you hydrated and make you less likely to completely overindulge.

5. Take it slow & watch your portion sizes.

I know this one seems kinda common sense but it’s soooo easy to get excited about all of the good food, load up, eat it quick, and then feel like complete garbage when your brain actually catches up with the amount of food you just inhaled. Use smaller portions, take it slow, and actually enjoy the food. You can always go back for more but if you overdo it initially, you end up feeling bad for hours. The goal is to enjoy the food and still feel awesome sauce afterwards 🙂  

Hopefully these tips will help ya have a killer, low stress holiday!

Happy holidays and here’s to a happy, healthy week of gratitude! (And food of course 😛 )

Until next time,

Xoxo

Ashley

P.S.  As always, let me know if you have any questions you want answered!