6 tips to beat holiday stress

Holiday season offers plenty of opportunities for feeling stressed and anxious—think holiday cards, party invites, family obligations, and buying and wrapping all those presents. And, if you’re watching your waistline, it doesn’t help that there are tempting treats at arms length everywhere you look. If you’re overwhelmed, here are six tips to beat holiday stress (ironically, using the acronym “STRESS”).

S: Sleep for 7 to 9 hours a night. This helps strengthen your resolve, improve your sanity and maintain your weight. In fact, some studies show that when you get a good night’s sleep, you’re more likely to make better food choices. Science also suggests that when you’re sleep-deprived, you tend to have higher levels of the appetite-stimulating hormone, ghrelin, likely leading to a case of next-day munchies. If you’re having trouble getting a solid snooze, try making the bedroom a few degrees cooler, say “no” to electronics at bedtime, and avoid eating large, heavy meals late in the evening. 

T: Take me time. While it’s tempting to reward yourself with edible goodies, consider treating yourself to non-food indulgences (they exist!). Need some ideas? Try a delicious-smelling candle, a fresh manicure, a bubble bath or a fun magazine—anything goes.   

R: Relax. Unwind and soothe away stress with a cup of my Chaos Calmer Tea. The active ingredient is chamomile tea, which acts as a mid sedative and may help ease anxiety. 

E: Exhale. Hit your internal “pause” button and take a few deep breaths. Think about three things you’re grateful for or three things you’re proud of. You’ll instantly feel more positive and less bogged down by the negative stuff thrown your way. Make this a consistent part of your holiday routine, meditative music optional.

S: Snack smarter. Before digging into treats lying around the house or office, ask yourself if you’re really hungry, or if you’re just stressed. If the answer is the latter, distract yourself with another activity; try calling a friend, taking a quick walk, reorganizing your purse or closet (if you’re home). And, if you can’t figure out which it is, have a stress relief snack on hand like a bag of crunchy baby carrots, creamy Greek yogurt, or these chocolate-stuffed raspberries (yum!). 

S: Step it up. Get your steps in wherever you can and keep track on your phone or pedometer. Walk around the block, park farther away at the mall, take the stairs, or pace while you’re on the phone. Aim for 10,000 steps each day to help destress and stay fit. 

Keep calm and holiday on! 

For more tips on how to enjoy the Holidays without gaining a pound, click here.