It’s time to deck the halls and be merry!
Do you find yourself ringing in the holidays with a mixture of excitement and dread?
The holiday season can be a wonderful time of year, filled with fun get-togethers and tasty treats.
But it can also be an incredibly stressful season, trying to cram holiday parties, kid’s events, gift shopping, and more into an already packed schedule. And let’s face it – there’s also a whole lot of pressure (which can create even more stress) to embrace the magical feeling the media tells us we’re supposed to have.
And stress isn’t always bad. It’s unavoidable, part of life, and can actually be a good thing.
However, if you constantly perceive normal life as something you have to be stressed about, it puts you into a chronic state of fight or flight. This can lead to fatigue, irritability, and compromised immunity. Who does that sound like? Probably half the people you know. Maybe even you.
Here’s the thing, the key is in adapting to stress rather than coping with or reducing it.
You have the ability to change how you perceive stress and allow your body to come out of the fight or flight mode. You simply have to give your body what it needs to adapt to stress so you can enjoy the holidays.
1. Maintain your chiropractic care
It can be easy to get caught up in the busyness of the holiday season and put your chiropractic appointments on the back burner. But regular spinal checks and adjustments optimize your brain-body connection, which improves your ability to adapt to stress.
Do everything you can to stick to your regularly scheduled appointments. If you don’t currently have any check-ups scheduled, call us today to book an appointment.
2. Breathe
Studies have shown that just a few minutes of deep breathing can stop your body’s fight or flight response and transition to “rest and digest” mode. While there are many deep breathing techniques out there, here’s a simple one to try:
- Place your hands on your belly and close your eyes.
- Take in a deep breath through your nose and feel your belly expand.
- Breathe out slowly through your nose, feeling your belly contract.
- Focus on the inhale and exhale. If your attention wanders, gently bring your focus back to your breathing.
- Repeat for several breaths, until you feel yourself relax.
3. Sleep
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again – adequate sleep is essential! Being well rested plays a significant role in your perception of stress and your ability to adapt to it.
Get to bed by 10:30 and aim for at least seven hours of sleep per night.
4. Eat Real Food
While all of those holiday treats are delicious, they contain high levels of sugar. This can send your body’s blood sugar levels on a roller coaster, which may exacerbate your perception of stress.
We’re not saying you have to completely avoid tasty treats. Just make sure you’re still supporting your nutritional needs with whole foods. Try some roasted asparagus, butternut squash, and chicken for a delicious and nourishing meal.
5. Move your Body
Taking time to exercise can be a challenge when your schedule is full or when you’re traveling. If you have a regular workout routine, do what you can to maintain it. However, any kind of movement is beneficial and will increase your adaptability to stress. Plus it’s fun!
Consider taking a quick walk outside, playing with the kids, or doing your mobility exercises.
Remember, “dealing” with stress is all about improving your ability to adapt to it. Stress will always be a part of life, whether it’s the holiday season or not.
Implementing these tips requires intentionality and consistency, but it’s well worth it.
Integrate these practices into your life this holiday season so that you can enjoy it…and not simply get through it.
Also, don’t forget to check out our new antioxidant, Protandim NRF2, which reduces oxidative stress and protects the body from free radicals.
Dr. Derek Gallant
Dr. Derek Gallant has committed himself to helping others live the best life possible. After graduating from Wesleyan University, he received his Doctor of Chiropractic Degree from Life Chiropractic College West where he finished 2nd in his class. He is the owner of Beverly Family Chiropractic and co-founder of The Well Family Foundation. Dr. Gallant is certified through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) in the Webster technique, an analysis focused on assisting pregnant women in a healthy pregnancy and natural birth. He has inspired thousands of people to take control of their own health using the Life By Design method. Apart from full time practice you can find Derek at the parks and coffee shops around Beverly with his family, training hard at the gym, or at the beach surfing.
