The holidays are supposed to be a time of joy and happiness while spending moments with family and friends.  Unfortunately the holidays can also be a time of extreme stress and sudden feelings of depression .  It is important to take care of yourself during this time so that you can make it through this time of year feeling renewed and blessed rather than anxious and depressed.  To help you fight that melancholy feeling, follow a few of these tips below.

Schedule lightly-  Do not overwhelm yourself by committing to every holiday party invite or potluck dinner.   The reality of the situation is often times there is too much to do and too little time mixed with too much to eat and not enough  will power.  Rather than trying to attend each and every function, commit to a few and really enjoy the time spent.  Leave plenty of time for your self to recoup and count your blessings.

Don’t Skip Workouts-  More than ever your workout is extremely important, not only for working off that extra slice of peacan pie, but for your mental well being.  Hit the treadmill the minute you feel down.  Getting your heart pumping in an instant mood booster.

Lend a Hand-  There is always someone struggling a little more than you, especially during the holidays. Make yourself available to that person by  lending a helping hand.  This will help you to forget your sorrows and will serve as a reminder of what the holidays are all about.

Breathe- Before you rush off to that next appointment, stop and breathe.  Take in a full breath, let it pool gently in the bottom of your lungs, and then release it slowly. Inhale deeply again, and exhale with a loud “aaaaah”.  Feel the air pass through your lungs and for that moment focus on nothing else.  Its going to be OK.

While these are just a few tips, the most important things to remember during the holidays are just to relax and enjoy the moments you have with the ones you love most.  Be Well.

Your Thoughts?