Reducing Holiday Stress!
The holiday season can add stress for many individuals.
Stress creates several different reactions within the body. Cortisol is known as the stress hormone that can impact your sleep, mood, and energy levels. A sudden or perceived threat causes the adrenal glands to release adrenaline and cortisol into the body. Cortisol impacts mental health because it can put our bodies into a fight or flight response. If our bodies get activated by fight or flight too often or too long, it can cause chronic stress which can lead to such things as anxiety, depression, weight gain, headaches, or problems with memory and concentration. So what can you do to help lower your stress during the holidays?
Take time to make a gratitude journal. Write out all the things you are thankful for and focus on these things daily.
You can reduce stress by lowering your expectations. Remind yourself that things don't have to be perfect. Doing YOUR best is all you can do!
Focus only on the things you CAN control. You can't control other people's emotions or actions!
Most people are deficient in vitamin D, which can lead to depression. Spending 15-30 minutes outside daily can help replenish vitamin D levels naturally.
Get plenty of sleep. You should aim for 7-8 hours of deep sleep a night as it is key to reducing stress.
Seek professional help!!! If you are finding it difficult to get your stress under control, reach out to a mental health professional.