1 minute: Having trouble getting going every morning? Or noticing a little more puffiness than usual around your eyes? Try filling a bowl with ice water and submerging your entire face for 20-25 seconds. That will wake you right up, and the cold temperature can help reduce inflammation and give your skin a healthy glow. Just make sure you keep it to 30 seconds or less.
5 minutes: Just say no. If somebody makes a request that you know will add to your stress or if it's something you're not sure you want to do, give yourself permission to say no – without guilt. We're all prone to giving (and giving and giving) during the holidays but saying no more often can help you avoid feeling drained.
15 minutes: Feeling especially stressed or anxious? Stop what you're doing and practice the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding exercise. Identify 5 things you can see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell, and 1 thing you can taste. This is a great way to calm anxiety and refocus your thoughts wherever you are.
30 minutes: Be intentional with your holiday planning. Decide what's most important to you and your family, and then prioritize those things. Remember that traditions can change, so don’t get stuck doing something just because you it's what you've always done. Make your intentions reflect your values and say goodbye to tasks and expectations that don’t add to those goals.
This article first appeared in the November 2023 edition of the HealthPerks newsletter.
