Practical Relaxation Techniques To Help With Stress During The Holidays

Did you know it's National Stress-Free Holidays month? This month, let's explore relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and yoga to keep our stress levels in check.

Mindful Meditation

Engage in a brief meditation session to reset your mental compass. Close your eyes, focus on your breath, and envision a serene setting. Picture a peaceful place—maybe a beach with soft waves or a cozy cabin in the snowy woods. Calm the chaos by dedicating a few minutes to this mental retreat. For a quick mental vacation, check out this Winter Ambience video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7h709bKNRh0

Strategic Deep Breathing

Master the art of controlled box breathing. Inhale for a count of four, hold for four, and exhale for four. This rhythmic breathing exercise promotes relaxation. For an animated demonstration, watch this Guided Box Breathing video to refine your technique https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6RbW2LtdFs.

Yoga for Stress Relief

Incorporate simple yoga poses into your routine. Positions like "Downward Dog" and "Child's Pose" offer a physical release from tension. To guide you through these poses, follow this yoga tutorial for a practical, stress-reducing session https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ci7qkvDyzw0.

Don’t battle stress alone if it’s getting to be too much

If your stress is getting overwhelming, take our free and fully anonymous mental health screening to help you determine if your recent thoughts or behaviors may be associated with a common, treatable mental health issue. At the end you will be presented with information and next steps. http://screening.mentalhealthscreening.org/lifewaysmi.

Remember, prioritizing your well-being is integral during the holiday rush. It's okay to take a break and rejuvenate. Implement these evidence-based practices to enhance your resilience and savor the festivities with a clear mind. From all of us at LifeWays, we wish you a peaceful and stress-free holiday season.