Fall can be a stressful and difficult time of the year for a whole host of reasons. Even if you are a stay at home Mom, or perhaps you work long hours and get back home under the cover of darkness, seasonal changes and drops in temperature can be stressful for both body and mind. Even if you think you are in pretty good shape and feel well balanced, stress can manifest itself in a variety of ways. From feeling more lethargic and lacking in energy, to even being more frustrated or short-tempered, do check in with your emotions to see how you are feeling and don’t be afraid admit you feel unwell – this is all part of the healing process.
You may be familiar with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) syndrome, a condition that affects thousands of Americans each year. Feelings of melancholy and being overwhelmed by small chores are a sign that you may be suffering from SAD syndrome. Depression manifests itself in a variety of ways and can be distressing and scary to cope with, making you feel isolated and afraid. However, worry not, there are a few changes you can make to get yourself feeling fighting fit and in a better mood during the festive period.
Get moving
Just because it’s cold and wet outside, there’s no excuse for you not to get out there and embrace the winter months. Why not explore different types of sports or leisure activities to mix up your routine? From going for a long leisurely walk in your local neighborhood park or nearby national park to jogging with friends – there is a whole host of ways to get in shape and feel more positive this fall. Golf is also a great way to get back to nature and enjoy time with your family and relatives in the outdoors, while enjoying stunning views too. Make sure that your golf clubs are in good order before hitting the course, Drivers Buying Guides provide more information if you are considering splashing out on a new set. Even if you are more of a gym bunny than an outdoor explorer, you could consider trying a new gym class too. Spinning is an excellent way to get your heart rate up and to keep in shape – why not give it a go? Exercise releases endorphins, or happy hormones that will make you get a buzz in a good way. So get up off your sofa and get active this festive season.
Take time to relax
It’s important to take time out to relax and unwind during the festive period too. Family visits, long hours at work and screaming children are sure to get your pulse racing and make you feel incredibly stressed and overwhelmed. Well, this year don’t let it. Be sure to put yourself first and cultivate that inner calm. Classes such as yoga and pilates are not only a good way to loosen up muscular tension, they also provide you with a safe and welcoming environment to take time out from the hustle and bustle of everyday life in addition to making your body feel more supply and lithe. Another option to help manage those conflicting emotions is exploring mindfulness and open eye meditation techniques – ideal if you work in a busy environment and find it difficult to disconnect from your professional life. These methods not only help you deal with unexpected stress, but they can also help you keep tabs on your overall wellbeing – meaning you learn how to manage your emotions and make changes that last a lifetime, not just for a few months. So be sure to take time to relax and slow down – it will help you be prepared for any expected stresses or slip-ups that the season may throw your way.
Do what makes you feel good
Maintaining a work-life balance can be tough. That said, it can be all too easy to lose sight of doing what makes you feel good when faced with a hectic festive season. It’s incredibly important to put your own health and wellbeing at the forefront of your mind during the winter months, and diet is a good place to start. All those rich festive meals and increased alcohol consumption can make you feel heavy and sluggish as a result, so be sure to keep your sugar consumption and serving sizes in check. Not only is too much sugar bad for your waistline, but sugar can also cause high spikes in insulin in the bloodstream, affecting your mood and making you feel irritable as a result. Moderation is key – there’s no reason not to indulge and enjoy your favorite seasonal treats, but there’s no reason to go overboard.
Why not do what makes you feel good with your family and children too? If you enjoy baking and decorating your home, the kids will love helping you make your favorite oatmeal cookie recipes or decorating your home for Thanksgiving. Remember that cooking is a great, cheap activity for the festive holidays too – and it also isn’t weather dependant. Sharing and enjoying the winter months at home is also a great mood boosting activity. So why not winter ready your home by incorporating candles and fluffy throws into your living space? Just making a few small changes to your home will sure to make an impact on your mood, providing a welcoming and comfy area in which you can relax and unwind.
It’s easier than you think to manage stress during the hectic festival season, and incorporate a few small positive changes into your daily routine to put rest and relaxation at the top of your agenda. So if you feel sport is best for you to disconnect from the every day, or perhaps you would like to explore meditation techniques, be sure to choose which works for you and stick to it. There’s no reason to suffer this festive season, so take it slow and enjoy the best of what the most magical time of the year has to offer.