Thanksgiving is over.
Christmas is fast approaching.
Some of you cheerfully blast the Christmas music and make 15 different types of cookies while stringing lights on the tree and serving hot cocoa to neighborhood children.
Or maybe you feel like a giant piano has landed on your chest. You can’t move. You can’t focus. You wonder if hibernation is an option.
This is your reminder to breathe.
Breathing helps to stop the panic and frantic feelings. It can alleviate the weight from feeling stressed and overwhelmed.
Try it now: Sit up straight. Breathe from deep in your belly. Inhale while you slowly count to 4. Hold it in. Exhale while you slowly count to 4. Repeat.
Your to-do list is already full. You cannot imagine adding even one more thing to the list.
That is ok.
Breathe.
You hate baking cookies. Last year you burned the turkey. Your mom criticized your pumpkin pie.
It’s ok.
Breathe.
Money is tight this year. Your kids are demanding the newest model toy. You hate shopping.
It’s ok.
Breathe.
Regardless of what causing you to feel overwhelmed or stressed today, breathing is a great way to feel calmer and in control. Take some time to do a few minutes of deep breathing today.
(If you have trouble finding time to breathe…use the image of the piano as a reminder!)
Still feeling stressed? Check out Holiday Stress Survival Guide Tip #2: Set Reasonable Expectations and Tip #3: Manage Post-Gift Letdown
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