After the Holidays, It’s Time to Take Care of YOU
The holidays can really take a toll in so many ways – on your home, if you’ve entertained; on your budget, especially if you have a large family and give lots of gifts; and most importantly, the holidays can be tough on you physically. You may have gotten less sleep than usual, had more stress than you’re accustomed to, and may even have been exposed to the cold or flu from well-meaning relatives coming in for a hug.
Once the holiday dust has settled, you’ll hopefully have some down time to reflect and relax on the festivities, and to take some time for yourself. Make it easy on yourself to ease back into your routine with these post-holiday relaxation pointers.
Breathe Deep
We rarely pay attention to our breathing – we just breathe in and out and that’s that. But deep breathing exercises are an effective way to relieve stress and create a feeling of calm. Just turn down the television and switch off your phone, find a comfortable chair, close your eyes, and focus on nothing but your breathing. Breathe in through your nose, filling your lungs with air, and out through your mouth, listening the sound of your breath. You’ll find lots of online videos to follow if you prefer a formal guide. Just a few minutes of rhythmic deep breathing can help you get centered, relaxed and ready to get on with the day.
To learn more about breathing exercises or meditation, helpful tips and a video can be found here.
Get Moving
When schedules get crowded, exercise is one of the easiest things to shrug off to make time for shopping, cooking, and cleaning. No excuses now – it’s time to get back into your exercise routine! Start slow, especially if it’s been awhile since you’ve been in the gym or able to get your exercise class. And it might be the right time to try something new. Easy cardio like walking or swimming can help you lose extra holiday pounds. Yoga and stretching will promote flexibility, and can also help you feel relaxed and calm.
Always consult a physician before adding a new exercise or fitness routine.
Take a Tea Break
There’s something so soothing about a warm cup of tea. Put a kettle on to boil and brew up a cup of chamomile, ginger or green tea to enjoy with the last of your holiday cookies or all by itself. In need of a tea recipe? Check out a few here.
Turn on Some Tunes
Holiday music is so lovely and welcome the first time you hear a favorite carol or song. After a month of hearing the same songs at the mall, on the car radio, and everywhere you go, it’s time for something different. Turn on some light classical or jazz. Search for videos or streaming music with Tibetan bells, rain sounds or other “music” from nature.
No matter how you choose to relax, the important thing is to keep the focus on YOU after a busy holiday season. Slow down, calm down, and recharge for the year ahead.