The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also be a time of stress and anxiety. With all the shopping, cooking, decorating, and socializing, it’s no wonder that many people feel overwhelmed during the holidays.
However, there are simple exercises you can do to help relieve that stress and enjoy the season to the fullest. Here are 10 exercises to try this Christmas:.
1. Deep Breathing
Take a moment to yourself and practice deep breathing. Inhale for four seconds, hold for seven seconds, and exhale for eight seconds. Do this for a few minutes, and you’ll notice how relaxed and calm you feel.
It’s a simple but effective way to relieve stress and anxiety quickly.
2. Leg Stretch
While sitting, extend one leg out and flex your ankle. Hold for a minute and then repeat with the other leg. This leg stretch is great for releasing any tension built up in your legs, lower back, and hips. It can also improve your circulation.
3. Yoga Pose – Child’s Pose
Sit on your knees with your buttocks resting on your heels. Bend forward and rest your forehead on the floor. Stretch your arms out in front of you and relax your shoulders.
This yoga pose helps to calm your mind and release any tension in your back, neck, and shoulders.
4. Shoulder Shrug
Sit or stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Lift your shoulders up towards your ears, and hold for a few seconds. Then, release and let your shoulders relax. Repeat this exercise a few times to relieve any tension in your neck and shoulders.
5. Wall Sit
Stand with your back against a wall and slide down until your knees are at a 90-degree angle. Hold this position for a minute, and then stand back up.
This exercise not only strengthens your legs and glutes but also relieves any stress in your lower back.
6. Hand Massage
Take a few minutes to give yourself a hand massage. Rub the palm of your hand with your thumb and then use your fingers to massage your palm and the back of your hand.
This exercise can relieve tension in your hands and wrists which can become sore from all the holiday shopping and wrapping.
7. Head Roll
Roll your head slowly in a circle, starting with your chin to your chest and then to each side. This exercise helps relieve any tension in your neck and shoulders that can build up from sitting at a desk or wrapping presents.
8. Walking
Take a brisk walk outside in the fresh air. Walking is a good stress reliever and can help improve your mood and energy levels. It’s a great way to take a break from the hectic pace of the holidays and clear your mind.
9. Laugh
Laughter is an excellent stress reliever. Watching a funny movie or TV show, or spending time with a friend who makes you laugh can help you forget your worries and feel more relaxed.
10. Meditation
Find a quiet spot in your home, close your eyes and clear your mind. Focus on your breathing and let any thoughts that come to mind pass through without judgment.
Meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety, and increase feelings of peace and contentment.
By practicing these simple exercises, you can relieve Christmas stress and enjoy the holiday season to the fullest.