How to Relieve Stress during the New Year
STRESS! We all have been through it =) It's part of everyday life. From setting big goals for the New Year, to meeting work and business deadlines, to cooking dinner for the family and even traveling....stress is part of living. I have learned that in order to get through the stressful times, it's all about how you handle it. Have you ever heard when people say, "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff"? Yeah, me too! But it's not as easy as taking a step back, and just exhaling =). Like anything, it takes practice and training your mind and body. Here are some ways to help you relieve some stress during the New Year.
6 Ways to Help You Relieve Stress During the New Year:
1. SPEND TIME WITH FAMILY & FRIENDS - Sometimes all it takes to relieve some stress is by spending some time with the people who matter most. I'm talking about the people who know you inside and out. It could be family, friends, or an accountability partner. Go out and watch a movie, or have a nice lunch or dinner. You can even do a Karaoke Night ha ha! I don't recommend doing anything that would further enhance your stress like bar hopping. Temporary solutions like drinking alcohol can make it even worse once you reach the state of sobriety. So keep the activity positive, and you'll be on your way to killing your stress level.
2. WORKOUT - Just being active can relieve stress. Working out doesn't have to be about doing a gym or home workout. What works for other people, may not work for you. Try walking around the block, or running in the park. How about grabbing your kids Xbox and hitting that Dance Party =) You can also do some fun activities like a group bike ride, park basketball, joining a dodge ball league, and even rock climbing. Oh, and don't forget about yoga! You'll be surprised what being active can do for stress. It's like a distraction and a form of trickery =)
Working out with family
3. DON'T EAT JUNK - Trust me, I'm guilty of this! But it doesn't work. I've seen people get stressed out and they either go on an all day eating binge, or mall shop till they drop. I highly recommend doing the complete opposite. If you focus on eating healthy during the stressful times, your body will get the necessary nutrients that it needs to make better decisions and gain energy to get through it. So next time you are stressed and HANGRY, skip the McDonalds and go straight to the nearest health food store or cafe. Or do what I do, blend up a Shakeology and make plans to have fun with some awesome people!
4. TRAVEL - So you bought the new iPhone and a new car, but you're still stressed out and unhappy. It's because material things are not the solution to stress. Like anything, it's only a temporary solution. Try doing memorable things like traveling. Traveling doesn't have to be expensive either. For a price of that iPhone 6 that you just bought, you could have a nice vacation. Oh, and I know that we live in a day and age where smart phones are a must, but all I'm saying is be aware of your spending, and maybe try focusing on things that will better your life and give you game-changing experiences. Traveling can help you learn more about yourself and the people around you. I can't "stress" how travel can be the best medicine for happiness, just go out there and do it, you'll thank me later =).
5. PEOPLE WATCHING - This always does the trick for me! I can sit at a park for hours just watching people. It's really a relaxing activity and can be for some great entertainment too, plus it's free! Who knows, you might get some new fashion ideas or workout tips from watching people. It can also be an opportunity to meet new people, and even that future special someone! wink wink
6. REST - After all the stress in our lives, sometimes we ignore one of the most important things that can be the only solution, which is rest. I remember before I became a full-time Beachbody Coach, I used to have 3 jobs and worked 100 hours per week, those were the days! Granted I had no time to rest, but when I did, sometimes I didn't take it because I was too focused on making money to pay my bills, which stressed me out even more. Rest and recovery is like the Holy Grail of your well-being, don't ignore it. Listen to your body and take care of it, it's the only one that you get.
So there you have it! Use these helpful anti-stress hints to keep you focused on accomplishing big goals during the New Year, it will be worth it! Remember, stress is just an obstacle in life. They are not there to defeat you unless YOU let it, obstacles are there to make you stronger. Have a great year, you deserve it!
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