It is not uncommon to not feel so jolly and filled with the holiday spirit for many this time of year. It can also be a time of stress and anxiety for many. Having the holiday blues is not uncommon. Here are so reasons you might be feeling this way and some ways to combat it:
Time Change – I know that the sun setting at 4:30 can make for a depressing feeling. It is strange to look at the clock at 6 pm and it is pitch black outside. It can get to you after a while. Try to spend some time outside during the light hours to ensure you are getting enough sunlight to keep your mood up.
More drinking - The holidays are filled with so many parties! It seems like there is an event every night. It is important to monitor and limit your alcohol intake during this season. Remember alcohol is a depressant.
Overeating – All of us have been guilty of this…. so much good food and you don’t want to be a rude guest and not eat, but try to limit your portions. Weight gain is another reason to feel worse about ourselves.
Lack of Sleep – With all of these parties, shopping, wrapping, and decorating who has time to get their 8 hours of beauty sleep a night?? However, sleep deprivation is a major contribution to depression. Try to get as much sleep as you can over the holidays, even if it means missing an event.
Overscheduling – No one wants to miss a good party or gift exchange, so we jam as much holiday fun into the season as we can. However, packing our schedules too full can hurt us. Try to limit your commitments to the most important ones so you don’t get burned out.
Lack of planning – If you can, don’t wait until the last minute to do your shopping. Who wants to be at the mall Christmas eve?? It is stressful and takes all of the joy out of giving. Plus, you are left with a limited selection! Try to give yourself enough time to get all of the gifts bought, so you can relax during the holiday season.
Lack of exercise – We are all guilty of skipping the gym in exchange for fruitcake, but it is so important to keep going to the gym to keep the endorphins pumping and the depressive feelings away.
Bottom line, take care of yourself during this time, which can be hard to do when you are trying t juggle so much. in the end, you have a better holiday season.
Happy holidays from your Friends at the WhoMove Team.
