Celebrating traditions with friends and family is what makes the holiday season merry and bright. However, the hustle and bustle of the holidays can quickly put a damper on your spirits. To help overcome unwanted stress, it’s important to understand how it affects the body. Keep reading for insight on the science of stress and consider the tips below to stay relaxed and refreshed during the holiday season.
Understanding the science of stress can help combat the symptoms. Stress is a natural physical and mental reaction to everyday life experiences, and can even be an attribute in dangerous situations. Healthline notes that the central nervous system controls the body’s “fight or flight” response, creating reactions that are intended to help with stress. In the brain, the hypothalamus prompts adrenal glands to release stress hormones that trigger increased heart rate, quickened breathing, and muscle tension. Despite mother nature’s intentions to make stress a valuable function, when daily tasks become overwhelming stress become an unwanted and unhealthy part of life.
One tip to help reduce stress during the holidays is to make time for yourself. While a calendar full of activities with friends and family can be a highlight of the holiday season, it’s important to allow “me time.” Consider a luxurious spa day at Burke Williams that includes a Pure Relaxation massage and aromatherapy enhancement that will help you unwind, improve circulation, and strengthen the immune system.
The most wonderful time of the year usually includes celebrations filled with delicious food and desserts, but even during the holidays, it’s best to indulge responsibly. Enjoy the special treats of the season but consider balancing them out with fresh foods and regular exercise. Maintaining a healthy diet is vital to a happy lifestyle, and Health.com notes that foods rich in B vitamins and antioxidants can reduce stress.
Another great tip for reducing stress around the holidays is to keep it simple. Huff Post shares that chaotic surroundings can trigger the brain for a demand for energy which often leads to anxiety. Given the busy holiday shopping and a whirlwind of wrapping paper that often coincides with the holidays, staying organized can be difficult. Take time to organize your daily tasks to account for extra time spent enjoying the holidays, and keep things simple whenever possible.
Escape the stress of the holidays and treat yourself or the ones you love to a spa day at Burke Williams. For more information on Burke Williams visit www.BurkeWilliamsSpa.com.
