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Is Xmas getting on top of you? Photo credit: FreeDigitalPhotos.net/stockimages |
1. Inhale the good stuff
If you're stressed it's likely your breathing will be shallow. However, deliberately controlling your breath can help you calm down - and trigger the same physiological responses that actually being relaxed would bring. When you breath deeply through your nose in a slow, even and gentle way your brain will receive messages to calm down and relax. This will in turn lower blood pressure, heart rate, the amount of stress hormones in the blood, balance your oxygen and carbon dioxide levels and improve your immune system functions. The Mental Health Foundation have a podcast to help you with breahing exercises here.
2. Get crafty
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Keep the kids busy - and mummy stress-free |
Christmas is all about the kids right? Which is probably why they are so absolutely super excited and hyper! But if you have things to do, answering tricky questions about Santa's flying reindeer and listening to impromptu performances of 'Away in a Manger' every five minutes can be really demanding. Why not stock up on some easy peasy craft items that the kids can really get stuck in to while you get on with...well Christmas! Perfect for the school holidays when they are at a loose end, and you are at your wit's end, Yellow Moon has everything from snow globes and tree decorations, to kits to make stockings, sleighs and even Christmas-themed foam glasses!
3. Use your sense of smell
4. Run away from it all
5. Step outside
Connecting with nature can be a powerful stress-reliever - with research showing lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol in those surrounded by green space. In fact 'Ecotherapy' is a discipline within it's own right, with a whole range of programmes that aim to improve mental health through outdoor activities. It's been shown that exposure to natural light can increase levels of the mood-lifting chemical serotonin - and that focussing on the space, colours and fresh air can help you disengage from the multitude of worries whizzing around your brain. In fact a walk with the kids will help them let off some steam and is the pick-me-up when you're feeling burnt out.
Do you have other ways to keep you calm over Christmas? Share them below - and help another mummy stay happy and healthy!
Interestingly enough, the holidays/XMAS calm me down! I take a break from work and just chill!
ReplyDeleteSounds like you have the right idea!!! Is work the only area you find stressful? You must be very relaxed - what's your secret?
DeleteGreat tips, I think stepping outside can help massively. I love going for walks when I'm stressed, it always helps me clear my head. :)
ReplyDeleteI find it even works for my kids actually. They moan a bit beforehand but then they get on a decent walk and love it.
DeleteFab tips, I especially like you advice to embrace it all :) I have been debating taking up jogging and I think I need to bite the bullet and do it! Thanks for linking up to #memyselfandI
ReplyDeleteYou never regret going for a run!
DeleteI find the build-up to Christmas hard! Think I suffer from SAD right at the time when I am missing out on sleep from too many parties and trying to organise Christmas! This year I am determined not to wear myself out which means saying no to some things and making sure I eat well (lots of water & vitamins after a night out!) Fingers crossed, I am getting through it and will enjoy the holidays!
ReplyDeleteGreat tips! I definitely find a good run helps clear my head from all the festive madness. Thanks for joining up with #memyselfandi and I look forward to reading more posts
ReplyDeletegreat tips and tricks really good suggestions
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yes Christmas is near to us no doubt enjoy Christmas with lot of joy and happy
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