Thanksgiving is just around the corner, soon after it will be Christmas and then New Years!

Studies have shown the stress and anxiety of the holiday season, especially during the months of November and December can manifest in symptoms we need to look out for: headaches, sleep disturbances, fatigue, exhaustion, difficulty concentrating, short temper, upset stomach, low job satisfaction and morale, aching muscles (including lower back pain), loss of appetite, and changes in behavior.

stress

Many of these symptoms occur because our routines are interrupted — by travel, guests, parties and the holidays themselves.  Here are some tips to get you through the busy holiday hustle and bustle.

Stress relief tips

Get adjusted: Getting adjusted resets the nervous system which will help overcome these stressors. Adjustments also help boost our immune systems so we are able to enjoy the holidays with our friends and family.  

Plan: If you are hosting any holiday events, take the time to plan to ensure all goes smoothly.

Pass on the extra cocktail: Larger amounts of alcohol can degrade our sleep quality, which in return can lead to increased stress levels.

Move: Go for a walk on your lunch break or stick with your normal gym routine.

Remind yourself of what you are grateful for: Instead of stressing about all of the things on your to-do list, take some time to make a note of all the great things happening in your life.

At the clinic, we have a Thankful Tree so we, as well as our patients, can remind ourselves we are thankful for each day! Stop by and put up a leaf telling us what you are thankful for.