The holidays are here already and for some of us, it is a passport to work and more work. Sometimes it may be difficult to take time out to rest especially if one is a workaholic. This can be dangerous to one’s health and relationships. Having time for self and others is an important part of life and should be set as top priority on our to do list. However, it is common place to see many work round the clock, in the name of making more money. It is true that there is so much to do, but someone once said that the best time to relax is when you feel you have no time for it. It is therefore paramount that you rest and create time to relax, so as to prevent the harmful effects of stress as we saw in our last series.
The year 2014 brought with it a number of good and bad times, and as the year slowly inches to an end, it would be beneficial to hibernate for some days. Here are 10 ways you can explore making the most of the holiday season:
1. Spend time with family
Interpersonal interaction has a therapeutic effect on our emotional health especially when with loved ones. It brings a sense of calm, peace and love. You feel at home and secure when with your family.
2. Go to the beach
A trip to a natural and serene environment can do your body and mind a lot of good. Either with loved ones or by yourself, you can ease a lot of stress by enjoying the cool air at the beach.
3. Visit a spa.
Why not give yourself a treat to a spa this season. You may go out to one or you can create one yourself at home. Get a massage which can help reduce, stress, headaches, pain and anxiety.
4. Practice relaxation techniques.
Breath in. Breath out.
This simple mantra has tremendous benefits. Relaxation technique works by counteracting the effects of a stress response. While stress activates the sympathetic nervous system in a fight or flight response, relaxation activates the parasympathetic nervous system and brings the body back to normal.
5. Surprise yourself
Surprise? While it may seem impossible to surprise oneself, you can decide to get yourself a gift. For all the hard work during the year, you sure deserve that one thing you really desire. Don’t wait for anyone to get it for you. Show yourself some love.
6. Do something you are passionate about.
This holiday, engage in an activity that you have always wanted to do however productive. This can be singing, writing, participating in a sport, traveling, learning to knit, play an instrument, etc.
7. Keep a positive attitude, be happy!.
Laughter they say is the best medicine. Having a positive outlook to life is crucial in combating stress. When you are optimistic, then it is not likely that the slightest obstacle will dampen your day. Always keep a cheery smile on your face.
8. Exercise
When stress weakens you, exercise invigorates and energizes you. It improves your concentration level, makes you alert enough to perform the day’s activities and what’s more, it refreshes you. Consider doing it regularly for at least 10 minutes each day this holiday.
9. Get enough sleep.
This holiday, you would do well to ensure you get adequate sleep for at least 7 to 9 hours. Lack of sleep has been linked to hypertension, increased production of stress hormones.
10. Plan ahead.
As the new year approaches one way to ensure a stress free 2015 will be to plan ahead. Management of time, resources, setting goals and priorities are important in ensuring a life that is free of stress.
Watch out for the next article, as we consider how we can make stress-free new year resolutions.
Again, you can follow @drmorayojimoh for interesting tips that can help you make the most of this holiday.
Compliments of the season!
From Mobile Health Consult! 
Click on here to download a gift from Mobile Health Consult.
Enjoy!
