It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Or is it? The holiday season can also be a stressful time. There are a few things you can do to look, feel and be your best during the last few months of the year. I like to use the acronym SEAS. I find that it is a big help in how to survive the holiday season.
S: SLEEP
Office parties, social gatherings, children performances, and so much more keeps us quite busy. Among all the festivities, it is essential to have adequate sleep. Most adults are not getting the 7 – 9 hours of sleep recommended by CDC. So when you can’t get the quantity, be sure you have quality sleep. I actually use our Lavender and Chamomile Baby Calming Cologne for a good night’s sleep. We need plenty of rest to survive the holiday season.
E: Exercise/Eat
Stay on top of your health by moving. Exercise doesn’t have to be formal. Taking the stairs instead of the elevator, parking at the far side of a parking lot, walking your dog, and playing with the children are all ways to stay active. Incorporate stress relief exercises like yoga stretches into your routine.
This is the time of year where rich foods high in calories are all around us. As much as possible, select foods that are low in sugar, salt, and fat. When attending potlucks, bring a healthy dish. Spend more time enjoying the company of friends and colleagues than with the food.
However, many of the savory foods and special treats we enjoy are at our disposal at this time of year. Lean in and enjoy. Moderation is the key. There’s no need to prohibit yourself unless you are under your doctor’s advisement. Just be mindful of your eating. Surviving the holiday season with this tip means less time making those unfulfilled “lose weight” New Year resolutions in January.
A: Aromatherapy
Relaxation is definitely needed at a time like this. When you can’t get away to a day spa, create one in your home. Don’t limit yourself to just the spa products. Because fragrances are mood enhancers, they are part of the aromatherapy experience. Warm, heavier scents are perfect for autumn and winter.
Keep the essence going in your home with our room sprays. Our HOME Room Sprays are safe to spritz on any surface that holds a scent like couch, throw pillows, blankets, and faux plants. Remember to spray the entryway and hallways so your house always smell fresh.
S: Self Care
Finally, take a few minutes daily to care for yourself. You deserve it. My favorite way is enjoying a cup of tea. Other simple self care activities include sitting closed-eyes for 3 – 5 minutes, taking deep breaths, enjoying a scented bubble bath. Whatever brings you happiness.
Above all else, take care of yourself. You are worth it. All of the above tips not only guides you through the holiday season, but it aids in aging well. Practice SEAS now, but perfect them in 2024
How to Survive the Holiday Season: DELEGATE
You don’t have to do it all. Learn to delegate. If you are a hosting dinner or party for Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, New Year’s Eve/Day, you don’t have to go it along. Here are a few other tips for surviving the holiday season:
- Have the family help you clean or hire a cleaning service
- Prep as much as possible weeks ahead of time (make and freeze cookie dough, precut and freeze vegetables that will be included as ingredients, etc)
- Consider a potluck instead of making the entire meal yourself. Or have others bring the side dishes. Or have others bring the appetizers and desserts. There’s so many options to make the holidays easier for you.
One Final Tip
Hire a personal shopper. That’s where I come in. A consultation with me will make your holiday season easier. I can save you time and money. Let’s do it. Contact me. The sooner you do, the quicker I can help you survive the holiday season