2 Your Health: Self-care, Stress, and the Holidays

Rose Bricker, DBH

The holiday season is here! That usually means that our stress levels go up. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the new year continue to be a very busy and often the most stressful time of the year. Traveling, buying gifts, and preparing for social events may consume us. It is easy to feel tired and overwhelmed with all these demands.

Why is self-care important now? Because the demands on our time during the holidays leaves us with little time for ourselves. During this time of the year, it’s important to be intentional about taking better care of ourselves.

What is self-care? It’s about prioritizing your health and well-being. It’s about being aware of healthy activities and skills that provide you with increased energy, a stable mood, and a sense of well-being. It’s hard to feel peace, joy, and contentment when you are frazzled and overcome with events.

What are some of the symptoms of not taking care of yourself? We often feel stressed, fearful, irritable, angry, overwhelmed, anxious, headaches, stomach aches, and overall body aches and pains.

What are some of the things you can do to take care of yourself?

Eat regularly and eat healthy foods

Reduce caffeine intake

Get adequate sleep

Exercise (walking in nature)

Spend time with friends

Deep breathe (three times a day) every day

Do something you love

Get a massage

Bring humor into your life

Meditation and mindfulness techniques

Connect with your spiritual self

These are just a few ways that you can take care of yourself. The key is to make yourself a priority and to practice self-care daily. You will feel more calm and peaceful! Remember, you are worth it!

If you would like more information on self-care, please call me at 520-815-6901 for a 30-minute complimentary meet and greet appointment. My website is bluelemonhealthandwellness.com, I’m located at Blue Lemon Therapy and Coaching, LLC, 10132 N. Oracle Road, Suite 160, Oro Valley, AZ 85704 (in the business park behind the Fairfield Inn in Oro Valley).