RELAX-stop the caps-relax-aw better.
Christmas is 14 days away, and then New Years, and everything that happens in between. Last minute gifts, forgotten family, parties with work, family and friends. Children out of school, weather changes and just regular life happening. This all adds up to STRESS! Lets take that stress down a few notches with some self-care time outs. Saying, “I need to relax” and doing it are two things so distance from each other. Here are some ideas to try or at least put into your file in your brain. Maybe, you might just draw from it over this holiday craziness.
There is this unbelievable low stress podcast called; Nothing Much Happens. It is bedtime stories for grownups. Nothing much happens, but they are feel good stories. You feel good, and can listen to while wrapping gifts, cleaning or scrapping memories! They are billed as bedtime stories, but put your feet up and listen and find a few minutes of relaxation!
Stress can cause me to eat. I used to go overboard, dozen donuts all by myself. But, now, ONE favorite donut with a cup of coffee at a bench in a park or a chair at a coffee shop is a great way to stop and regroup. Really draw the enjoyment out of your snack and coffee. Drinking it for the joy of the taste, not the kapow of the caffeine. If you can escape from somewhere and do this secretly, and no one else knows about it, the secret is even more empowering to the relaxation. It puts that sly smile on your face and you can close your eyes and know you are stronger.
JUST say NO!
This was a big phrase for the anti-drug campaign years ago. I like to take it and use it during the stressful time of the holidays.
“Mom, can we…………?” NO.
“Can you help out with this extra activity?” NO.
” I wonder if I can have 25 extra people over on this day?” NO.
These two letters put together can stop the stress before it ever happens. The ability to say NO, in a kind way will help you tremendously this season. Give it a try and push out the guilt. Guilt is a big stressor, and in the words of Elsa:
Grocery Delivery! I can not say enough about this. As I type this blog, I have a HUGE order being bagged and ready for pick up (free) at my local Wal-Mart. I make a list, like normal, but shop from the comfort of my computer (in my robe). I will pick up a few minutes before my husband gets home for lunch and he will help me carry it all in. Many stores even have delivery. This is the time to try it! It is a great way to relieve the stress and impulse buying too! WIN!
I saw this page last week, and it just made me stop and breathe. Enjoy this Day. The holidays will be over soon, and if we don’t stop and just enjoy this day, they will be gone and we didn’t even get to enjoy. Oh Angela Toucan, thank you for yet another way to relax. Enjoy the day!
This crazy holiday season can overwhelm the best. Please take time to take time for you.
~Merry Christmas and Never Lose Your Joy
