With National Stress Awareness day taking place on the 1st of November, we have recently been turning our attention to stress busting methods to reduce stress levels. For many of us stress is becoming an increasing issue, and this is particularly true during the festive season. For some Christmas is a time to relax and catch up with friends and family, but for others the months before result in an increased workload, mounting pressures at work and a more demanding family and personal life too.
If you often enter November feeling worried about the months ahead, try these stress busting tips to help you keep on top of things and reduce your stress levels during November and December…
Be Active
One of the first responses to feeling stressed is to stop exercising. When we have so much to do, taking time out to exercise can seem counterproductive. However, exercise in itself is a stress buster. It will help you refresh and feel on top of your stress levels again.
When you are not exercising, you might have an extra hour a day to put towards your to-do list. But if you are stressed, it is likely that you will find even the most simple of tasks challenging. Try to take a break each day and get at least half an hour of exercise to help bring your stress levels down.
Make Space for ‘Me Time’
It might sound like a bit of a cliché, but downtime should really be a priority when your stress levels are high. Reading a book, going for a walk, having a massage or manicure are all great ways to invest a little time in yourself. Treat yourself to some well deserved rest, away from work and Christmas planning.
Try to take just a little time every day to do something you enjoy, such as reading or having a bath. Once a week schedule something more significant, such as going for a leisurely swim or having a massage.
Avoid Unhealthy Habits
When we have little time it’s easy to slip into unhealthy habits. This can be things like skipping breakfast or eating high fat, sugar and salty convenience foods.It can also be tempting to turn to alcohol to help yourself relax in the evenings, or even get to sleep when you are really feeling the pressure. All of these habits might provide a solution to a problem initially, but they are all quick fixes and only make the problem bigger in the end.
When your stress levels are high it’s particularly important to look after your mind and body. Try to eat lots of fresh and healthy food, drink lots of water and take regular exercise. Avoid drinking alcohol regularly, but of course feel free to indulge in a glass of wine a couple of times a week.
Stress Busting Tips for the Busy Festive Period
In addition to looking after yourself during the festive season, if you are an employer it is important to recognise that Christmas can be particularly stressful for employees. Be aware of the different problems each individual might face, and consider providing them with some time out to help them refresh, with on-site manicures and massages.
