(Posted 2022 January)
Now that the busyness of the holiday season has passed, it may be time to take a break and relax. For some people, the holiday season can be magical, but the season also can ramp up some strong emotions.
Jam-packed schedules, parties, fat-laden foods, travel, and family bonding can leave us burnt out, exhausted and overwhelmed by the new year. That’s why setting aside me time is crucial for our emotional well-being.
A favorite activity of every new year is letting go of bad habits and setting self-improvement goals. Post-holiday self-care practices should be at the top of the list.
Need a little TLC to kick off 2022? Try these four tips to stifle stress and alleviate anxiety.
The holidays can bring up tough emotions, such as loneliness and grief. But because we are told to celebrate the wonder of the season, we sometimes feel guilty if we experience anything other than happiness and joy. Avoiding negative feelings can cause long-term pain and trauma. So, don’t bottle your emotions. Putting what you’re feeling on paper is a great way to reflect on your emotions and identify what might be triggering them. So write your thoughts in a journal. This gets them out of your head so you can have mental space to enjoy today.
Short days and freezing weather make it difficult to spend time outside during winter months. Whenever possible, don’t stay stuck inside; protect yourself from the cold and soak up the sun. Hike through a local park or stroll around your neighborhood. Nature provides a change of scenery and a fresh perspective while also calming your mind, relieving tension and lowering blood pressure.
Recall the people, experiences, and places in your life that make your feel grateful. When gratitude is part of your daily routine, you’ll feel happier and more optimistic. In fact, just asking yourself what you’re thankful for can cause a surge in dopamine and serotonin, our feel-good hormones. If you start veering toward the negative, make a mental note what’s going right in your life.
Studies show breaking a sweat lifts your mood, improves sleep, increases focus and relieves stress. Research also shows being active helps manage anxiety as effectively as antidepressants. Best of all? You don’t have to make time in your schedule for the gym. A 30-minute dance session in your kitchen works just as well as a cardio class.
This article posting is part of the Domestic and Sexual Violence Services' Volunteer Voices monthly newsletter for current and potential volunteers. If you're not already a volunteer, learn how to get involved. Find out about upcoming trainings, volunteer trainings, happenings around the DSVS office and information about articles, books, media recommendations and more.
Learn more about the Domestic and Sexual Violence Services (DSVS).