There’s no denying it. The holiday season is a time for joy and merriment, but it can also be a time of great stress. With so many obligations, the last thing you need is to worry about staying happy all the time. Thankfully there are plenty of ways to keep your mood as bright as your Christmas sweater:
* Make plans with people in your life you truly enjoy being around. These bonding moments will offset any unpleasant interactions that might arise from dealing with others over the holidays.
* Exercise! Working up a sweat will always get you in a happy mood, and it can also help relieve stress hormones that might be building up from all of the holiday pressures.
* Create your own traditions. Doing new things every year will keep the holidays interesting, and help to make them feel less like a chore.
* Be mindful of your positive thoughts and emotions by writing down at least one thing you’re grateful for each day. You’ll be surprised how much this will help boost your mood.
* Don’t try to do too much. You’re only human, and trying to fit in too many activities will inevitably lead to stress and frustration. Pace yourself, and remember that just being with the people you love is all that really matters at the end of the day.
* Relax, relax, relax! Don’t force yourself to be happy—just do something that makes you feel good.
Another great way to feel relaxed this holiday season is with a stress-relieving massage. Massages alter brain chemistry to relieve pain and stress, so be sure to book one this season.
There are so many things you can do to make sure you have an enjoyable holiday—and make sure it isn’t the last time you celebrate this time of year. Just remember to take it easy, and all will be fine.
