It’s the most wonderful time of the year — but also a time often filled with longer to-do lists, stress, and family drama. The Well Ray community pulled together top five tips for self-care during the holidays:
Keep It Simple: “In the wonderful movie The Grinch Who Stole Christmas, do you remember when the Grinch realizes? ‘It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags…..What if Christmas (the holidays), perhaps, means a little bit more,’” said Four Directions Wellness owner Mara Benner. “Acknowledge the importance of the season – family, friends, community, love, compassion, forgiveness and spirit. Keep it simple and don’t worry about all of the extras. Instead, carve out time for connecting with those around you.”
Schedule Workouts: “Commit to at least one workout over the holiday weekend,” advises Ascend Cycle owner Kat Zajac. “This way you will stay on track without taking time away from R&R. Stay accountable by scheduling it ahead of time.”
Make Time For Joy: “Select one thing that brings you the most joy this holiday season and the create time for it in your schedule,” said Dr. Lauren Fisher of Del Ray Psych & Wellness. “Remember that you have the power to influence your family get together in a positive way. A joyful and positive attitude is likely to influence others around you.”
Acknowledge Stress — Then Laugh: “Reality is we stress during the holidays. It happens. Our buttons are pressed, and often times it’s because we surround ourselves with the people who actually created those buttons,” said Mindful Junkie’s Gina White. She advises taking a “light-hearted approach” to holiday stress: “Try and notice when your buttons are being pushed, then mentally name what you are feeling without identifying with it, then think something ridiculous — and smile. You can’t change how others are going to act, but you can change how you feel about it and how you respond to it. Take it in, breathe, smile, and maybe chuckle a bit.”
Add Self-Care To Your Calendar: The Well Ray community presents Twelve Days of Wellness in Del Ray from Dec. 9-20, featuring free workshops, classes, promotions, and more. View the complete schedule at www.visitdelray.com.
