Live Well: Healthy Holidays

December is a month of celebration in many cultures, with both religious and secular holidays filling the calendar. It’s a time of joy, but can also be a time of stress!

Fittingly, this month, our wellness theme is Healthy Holidays. Over the next few weeks, you’ll see articles on green gift-giving, halting the holiday hustle, and managing the winter blues. 

One way to keep grounded in this potentially hectic time is to create a 5-minute calming ritual for yourself. Some elements you might consider including:

• A soothing beverage like hot cocoa or herbal tea. Make a point of turning off devices and distractions just for the duration of your drink. Ideally, choose something you don’t partake in regularly – make it something you only have for your quiet time, and your body and mind will begin to slow down as soon as you begin your ritual.
• Writing in a gratitude journal has been proven to be an effective way to improve your mood and outlook. Limiting yourself to once a day, writing only three things you feel thankful for, makes it a quick and simple ritual you can carve out time for even when extremely busy.
• Take a moment to stretch. Stand with your feet flat on the ground, close your eyes, and notice where you are carrying tension in your body. Gently stretch your arms, shoulders, sides, and legs, and when you finish each stretch, focus on relaxing your body and feeling your body let go of the tension you were holding.
• Simple puzzles and games can be a way to take your mind off your worries or work. Whether it’s a quick crossword, a sudoku, or even a few pieces in a jigsaw puzzle, taking a few minutes to focus your brain on something different can reorient your thoughts when life is hectic.

Taking a moment now to decide on what your calming ritual will be will make it easier to carve out calming moments later in the month when you really need them.