While the holidays are a joyful time, they can also conjure up mixed emotions (and a lengthy to-do list) for many people. Mindfulness can help reduce holiday-related stress and anxiety. It allows you to stay in the present moment, manage the pressures and expectations of the season, and respond to challenging situations with greater composure.
A simple way to practice mindfulness and reduce stress is a one-minute meditation: relax your shoulders, focus on deep breaths in for a count of four and out for a count of six, breathe in positivity, exhale any tension or stress. To enhance the experience, add a few drops of essential oil such as calming lavender or an uplifting citrus scent, to the palms of your hands, cup your nose and inhale deeply. Then, smile - you’ve got this. The best part is you can use this practice anywhere and any time to relax your nervous system. Repeat the process for longer periods of time for deeper relaxation. @tambracollective
“Deep breathing triggers the relaxation response, reducing stress and anxiety. A few deep breaths can slow heart rate, help manage emotions, and enhance emotional resilience – something we all could benefit from during the holidays.”