By WIN Provider: Dr. Greg Lamb, Chiropractor

While the holidays are meant to be a time filled with family, happiness and cheer, it often comes with a need to navigate holiday stress when our normal routines are thrown off.

This change in routine can lead to unwanted pressure and cause depressive feelings over the holiday.

Try implementing these practical tips to ensure you have the most enjoyable holiday season possible!

Say no: Don’t stress yourself out trying to make every single event.

It can get tough when our calendars get filled with different holiday commitments. Remember, it’s okay to say no to some of them.

Create relaxing environments: Light candles, listen to music, open the windows on a nice day.

Research demonstrates that music and specific scents can boost feelings of well-being and Vitamin D will increase your energy levels and enhance your mood.

Maintain healthy habits: For a lot of people their normal healthy habits go out the chimney (like Santa).

A short workout everyday boosts endorphins and will have you feeling ready to take on the tasks of the day.
Eat healthy snacks throughout the day so you aren’t starving come dinner time leading to overeating.
Encourage family walks or activities to enhance bonding while also getting in extra exercise.

Respect different opinions: Focus on your similarities.

Big gatherings over the holiday season can mean interacting with friends or family who may not share the same perspectives as you.
Try your best to respect other opinions and try to see where they are coming from.

Take a break: Remember, this is your holiday.

Take time to enjoy the things that you like to do.
Go for a short walk, take a nap, read a book, or watch a funny movie.
Instead of draining your battery trying to do everything, focus on things that will recharge your battery and decrease your stress levels!

Remember simple yet effective tips to ensure you truly enjoy the holiday season this year. If you have any concerns, book a visit with me at WIN Health!