Medical professionals acknowledge the reality of Holiday stress and its negative impact on our health. When almost two-thirds of people say that Christmastime is stressful, it is essential that we find time to relax and unwind.
So how can we stay grounded and present and truly let ourselves enjoy the Holidays? Here are helpful ways to create a more peaceful and relaxing Holiday (plus we have a recommended Calm Radio channel for each suggestion).
Intentionally Choosing Calm & Joy
The first step to enjoying the Holidays is to make the decision to enjoy the Holidays. Sounds simple, but it is a vital foundation. Research shows that genuine happiness is about how we feel inside. When we are in the moment and allow ourselves to feel positive emotions, we become more open to other positive experiences - perpetuating the cycle of happiness.
Calm Radio Channel: Bring joy to your home, car, or celebration with our Christmas Mega Mix. This channel lets you celebrate the Holidays in an upbeat way. Dance and sing along!
Taking a Break
Hustle and bustle - the rhyme makes it sound fun, but it’s exhausting. It is essential to take a break. We all know that, but it is easier said than done. It’s challenging to disengage and connect with the moment in a calming way. Research suggests that it’s worth the effort to do so. A Harvard study found that a wandering mind - about 47% of waking hours spent thinking about what isn’t going on - is a strong cause of unhappiness. Take the time to unplug and focus on the moment.
Calm Radio Channel: Our Positivity channel is the perfect antidote to the noise and busyness of the Holidays. It is relaxing music that is emotionally and spiritually uplifting, calming, and mentally invigorating.
Exercise
The Holidays can be so busy that most of the time you are just looking for a couch to crash on, but some exercise might be more beneficial. Being active can elevate your mood and help you cope with stress.
You don’t need to spend hours exercising. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity a minimum of three times each week. It’s time spent putting you in a calmer state of mind. Find an activity that works for you and your lifestyle.
Calm Radio Channel: Our Yoga Retreat channel is the perfect way to add gentle exercise to your Holidays. Find a quiet room and let the flowing music accompany your asanas and salutations. Namaste.
Self-Care
Make some time for yourself over the Holidays. The Mayo Clinic says that “spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may refresh you enough to handle everything you need to do.”
Another important aspect of self-care over the Holidays is getting the right amount of sleep. When you are sleep deprived, you are more prone to stress. Reduce the busyness, pace yourself, and make sure you don’t burn the midnight oil every night of the Holidays.
Calm Radio Channel: Our Sleep music channel is perfect for when you are having trouble sleeping. Let this soothing, calming music give you the deep sleep you need this time of year.
Breathe
This sounds obvious, but sometimes we forget to take deep breaths and really give our bodies the oxygen it needs. Meditation is a great way to accomplish this. Find 10 minutes each day, and you will feel a reduction in stress. Use meditation to focus on your breath and clear your mind, placing you in the present moment and restoring inner calm.
Calm Radio Channel: Our OM meditation music channel is the perfect music companion for your Holiday meditation. Even if you just want to chill or relax without intentionally meditating, this is a wonderful channel to put on.
However you celebrate, we hope that you have a Holiday with as little stress as possible. Remember, if you want to give the gift of calm and relaxing music, give them a subscription to Calm Radio.
Happy listening & happy Holidays!
