For many of us, as we make resolutions for the new year, health and happiness are top priorities! So, my friend and colleague Heidi E Spear, MA, Stress-Reduction Coach, Meditation & Yoga Teacher, and I have pulled together reminders and tips for self-care that you can use on January 1st after the holiday push (and beyond)!
Our bodies are equipped with the ability to regenerate and heal. In order for our natural healing processes to work, we need to take the time to take care of our body. That means, taking time to sleep and rest, eating a healthy balanced diet, getting daily movement and exercise, connecting with friends and family, and spending time each day to calm down our body.
Some stress-relieving ideas for post-holiday self-care:
• When you wake up in the morning, notice how you feel. Take a few deep breaths to wake up. Then think about the ways that you will support yourself throughout the day - envision how you will create space in between the other to-dos that often seem more urgent.
• Plan to get outside for some quiet time. Whether you take one short walk to the mailbox and back, or take a stroll with someone you love, create time to be peaceful outside. If you need to wait until the children fall asleep, then after that, step outside and take time all by yourself to enjoy the night sky and fresh air.
• Take time to reflect on something you are grateful for. For some of us the holidays are wonderful, for some of us the holidays are challenging, for some of us they are a mixed bag. To let go of stress that might have built up for you, take time to reflect on something you are grateful for. Let yourself really feel the gratitude, and turn the corners of your mouth up into a gentle smile. This is a proven mood-booster.
Also, plan to have nourishing food in the house for you and your family on New Year’s Day. Check out this amazing recipe by Dr Mark Hyman, and serve it with a big salad or sautéed greens. http://drhyman.com/blog/2015/04/24/healing-meals-blackened-salmon/
Around the holidays, we often feel that we do not have enough time for ourselves. This is the best time of the year to refocus our attention on ourselves and our health.
All good wishes!
Elizabeth and Heidi