Lets have an honest conversation about stress. I know a thing or two about conquering this demon. I’ve been a Massage Therapist since 2010 and have struggled with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder for most of my adult life. Every Christmas dozens of blogs and newspapers and magazines start publishing articles about “How to Manage Stress during the Holidays”. How many of you really have the time to take any of the advice? Furthermore, how many of you actually try even if you do have the time?
Stress is a tricky thing. Its more than just that scattered feeling, lost keys, and rushing around. I've discovered that managing stress is a lot more about knowing what stress is and how it affects you than actually doing anything about it. I have a favorite metaphor for many of the people that come to see me. You can’t DO until you BE. We are a culture of doing. If we aren't moving, or talking, or acting then we think we are being lazy. In reality though, our energy levels are a lot like bank accounts. You have to put energy into the bank before you can withdraw it, and you add energy by BEING.
What I mean by “being” is not doing. That means using your senses. Paying attention. Being curious. I’m not advocating that you sit around and literally do nothing. I’m advocating paying attention. For some people that means meditation and yoga. But, for most of us that just isn't possible. Our stress levels are too high and we are too amped up on caffeine and adrenaline. Fortunately, Christmas time is a wonderful time for just “being” because there are unique sights and sounds and smells this time of year.
So my advice on beating the stress of the holidays? Really listen to a few holiday carols and sing along if you want too! Bake some cookies, light a candle, or enjoy a fragrant holiday drink and really enjoy the smells and tastes. Give your friends and family hugs and really appreciate them in that moment. Take time to be dazzled by holiday lights and decorations. The secret to beating stress is curiosity about our world and the people in it; use your senses. Once you are being, the doing part comes easy.
Happy Holidays!
Stress is a tricky thing. Its more than just that scattered feeling, lost keys, and rushing around. I've discovered that managing stress is a lot more about knowing what stress is and how it affects you than actually doing anything about it. I have a favorite metaphor for many of the people that come to see me. You can’t DO until you BE. We are a culture of doing. If we aren't moving, or talking, or acting then we think we are being lazy. In reality though, our energy levels are a lot like bank accounts. You have to put energy into the bank before you can withdraw it, and you add energy by BEING.
What I mean by “being” is not doing. That means using your senses. Paying attention. Being curious. I’m not advocating that you sit around and literally do nothing. I’m advocating paying attention. For some people that means meditation and yoga. But, for most of us that just isn't possible. Our stress levels are too high and we are too amped up on caffeine and adrenaline. Fortunately, Christmas time is a wonderful time for just “being” because there are unique sights and sounds and smells this time of year.
So my advice on beating the stress of the holidays? Really listen to a few holiday carols and sing along if you want too! Bake some cookies, light a candle, or enjoy a fragrant holiday drink and really enjoy the smells and tastes. Give your friends and family hugs and really appreciate them in that moment. Take time to be dazzled by holiday lights and decorations. The secret to beating stress is curiosity about our world and the people in it; use your senses. Once you are being, the doing part comes easy.
Happy Holidays!
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