It’s the most wonderful time of the year…almost. Before long, there will be holiday displays in windows, evenings out with old friends, and an overloaded schedule. Even though there is a lot to be grateful for as the fall slowly shifts to winter, this can also be a time of overwhelm. There is so much to get done! So many people to see! Maybe you are concerned about finances, having enough time to do all the things you want to do, or just feel a little frazzled. That’s okay. In fact, it is a completely normal response to the busy season. There are many ways to tackle those feelings head on. Looking for a few examples? Here are some new age stress relievers…
The Importance of Addressing Stress
Stress happens to everyone at some point or another. Brief moments of stress are not necessarily something you need to be concerned about, but when you feel stressed a lot of the time or you start to feel completely overwhelmed, it is important to take action. Common signs of stress include headaches, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and muscle tension. On an emotional level, stress can leave you feeling restless, overwhelmed, angry, and depressed. Those physical and emotional symptoms can cause you to withdraw and even skip out on healthy habits. There is no doubt about it…finding ways to alleviate stress is a must. On the plus side? There are so many options. Consider incorporating one of the following stress relievers into your day.
Use These Stress Relievers to Make Sure the Busy Season is the Best Season
Despite the hectic schedule and everything on your plate right now, stress doesn’t have to rule your day. Start simple and take a deep breath. Certain breathing techniques have been linked to stress reduction. (Check out the Spirit Earth Magazine article, “Reduce Stress with Breathing Techniques for Calm,” for a few examples.) Need a little bit more? Consider the following:
- Start Your Day with Tai Chi. Exercise has been proven to reduce stress levels and boost endorphins. In short? You start to feel better when you incorporate a little movement into the day. Though there are many ways to move your body, it might be best to choose something slow and intentional this season. After all, there is so much rushing around to do. Why not connect to your body in an intentional way instead? Tai chi is a form of exercise that is based on martial arts. It involves slow and thoughtful movements as well as deep breathing. Some of the benefits of tai chi include a reduction in stress, anxiety, and depression, better sleep, and improved cognition in older adults. Take a class or watch a tutorial online.
- Rededicate Yourself to Meditation. When life gets busy, it is easy to put healthy habits on the backburner. This is especially true when it comes to meditation. After all, who has time to sit in silence when there are work tasks to complete, emails to answer, and shopping lists to check off? Though it may be tempting to pause your meditation practice until the new year…don’t! Meditation has many proven benefits, especially when it comes to stress reduction. Commit to just 10 minutes a day for now. Remember, it is better to be consistent than it is to meditate once every now and then. Short guided meditations can be beneficial (download an app or watch a video) or you can set a timer on your phone.
Even More Stress Relievers to Consider
Still searching for some new age inspired stress relievers? Look no further. Here are some more suggestions to make sure this season is one to remember for all the right reasons.
- Carry the Right Crystals with You. If you are someone who feels drawn to crystals, then allow these beautiful stones to address your seasonal stress. There are many different crystals to choose from. In fact, some may already be in your collection. Keep your eyes peeled for amethyst (calms the nerves), rose quartz (gentle and nurturing), black tourmaline (reduces tension and draws away negativity), and lepidolite (for balance). Place a crystal in a room that causes you stress, like your office, or keep a small tumbled stone in your pocket throughout the day. Let that stone act as a reminder that everything is going to be okay.
- Find Peace with Sound Therapy. It is amazing how music and sound can alter your mood. Have you been feeling extra stressed these days? Start listening to calming and peaceful music while you fall asleep or on your way to work. Alternatively, Tibetan singing bowls can bathe your home in good vibrations. The sounds have been found to stimulate stress relief and create a deeper sense of peace. Though there is something to be said for creating the sound yourself, there are also Tibetan singing bowl audios and videos available online in a pinch. That means you can infuse your day with relaxation, wherever you may be.
- Breathe Easier with Aromatherapy. Sometimes, all you need is a feel-good scent. There are many benefits associated with aromatherapy, but one of the most notable is stress reduction. Popular essential oils like lavender, lemon, chamomile, and bergamot are some of the best for this purpose. Use a diffuser in your home or spray a little essential oil blend on your clothes in the morning. There are even aromatherapy inhalers available so you can carry the benefits of aromatherapy around with you all day long.
Reduce Stress and Enjoy the Busy Season
November and December are without a doubt the busiest months. There always seems to be so much to do as the year comes to a close. From holiday preparations to last minute work assignments and everything in between…it is no wonder stress is so common. However, just because it is common doesn’t mean it has to derail your life. Use one or more of these stress relievers for a truly unforgettable season.
