Ten Ways to Relieve Stress | Tips to Relieve Stress | Forum

The holidays can be very stressful. You could be involved in a bad breakup, family drama or even have massive shopping stress (have you tried going to the mall or Wal-Mart? sheesh!) Luckily, there are a few techniques that can help relieve that stress and get you back in the holiday spirit.

Meditation- Take 5-10 minutes to unwind- it's easy to do in a hot bath, just before you go to bed or when you wake up. Let your mind wander, and reconnect to your body.
Deep Breathing- Simply get in a comfortable position, place your hands on your abdomen and be aware of your breath. Focus on taking deep, slow breaths from deep in your lungs- if your belly keeps rising- you're doing it correctly.
Aromatherapy with Essential oils- Lavender, lavender and more lavender. It's actually proven to reduce stress and help calm you down. Put it in your bath (like I do) or in a small sprayer with distilled water for a quick spritz throughout the day.
Get a massage!- Seriously, you deserve it- just look at how much you accomplish :) Need an excuse? Studies show that it actually can lower your level of the stress hormone cortisol- reducing stress.
Exercise- If your idea of fun is going to the gym- this one's for you. Good news for yoga lovers- that's exercise and meditation. Two in one :)
Listen to uplifting music- If music cheers you up, "rock on!" (or "classical on!" :))
Sing- Sing along to your favorite songs and belt out those holiday tunes. Whether you're in your car or in your shower (or heck even if you're that slightly strange guy who sings in the middle of the mall) singing can get your mind off of stressful things and bring you joy.
Laugh- Find something that brings you joy and have fun. Take time out to watch your favorite sitcom or talk with your best friend who always makes you laugh. Don't be afraid to laugh at yourself.
Set Boundaries- Don't be afraid to challenge unreasonable expectations or say "no". Just make sure to establish those boundaries from a place of love and kindness.
Focus on the positive- Challenge yourself to find the positive in every situation. Sometimes it can be difficult, but that's part of the challenge. If you make it a game- you can change your outlook and de-stress.
Feel free to share your tips below or in the Truth Fairy TV forum.