Tis' the season....Holiday Stress Busters!

Thiel Sisters - stress relief via a "day after Thanksgiving" WOD

I don't know if it's my 2 yr old cutie or what but this year I am TOTALLY into Christmas ...decorations....parties.....family.....gifts - all of it!
But let's be real - I know the family gatherings - pressure to shop, spend money, have the "perfect" tree can drive a person CRAZY!

Here are a few quick and easy things you can do to IMMEDIATELY lower your stress levels.

Stay Calm Kit

Try this Holiday Stress Buster Bundle We are a caffeinated culture but often I need more help relaxing than getting amped up - especially during the Holidays.

Squeeze here

The fleshy place between your index finger and thumb is called thehoku spot in traditional Chinese medicine. Applying firm pressure there for just 30 seconds can reduce stress and tension in your upper body. So if you start to feel overwhelmed by the holiday chaos, give your hand a squeeze and take a deep breathe.

Breathing Drill

For 2 minutes, sit with your eyes closed - hands on your lap and breathe. Inhale 5 seconds (fill lungs completely aka belly breathing), Hold for 10 seconds, Exhale for 15 seconds.  Repeat!

Fit in exercise

It may be the last thing you feel like doing when you're stressed out, but going for a run or hitting the gym can actually make you feel better. Research has found that workouts can boost your mood for up to 12 hours.  Keep is stupid simple  ie: 5 minutes of moving can change your state! 

Take a whiff of citrus

Researchers studying depression have found that certain citrus fragrances boost feelings of well-being and alleviate stress by upping levels of norepinephrine, a hormone that affects mood.
For an all-day pick-me-up, dab a little lemon or orange essential oil on a handkerchief to tuck in your pocket.