A message from our Cedar Mountain Center

The holidays can be a time of celebration and joy, but they can also bring up feelings of stress, sadness, and isolation. Keep things in balance this year with these tips on how to manage holiday stress from Cody Regional Health’s Cedar Mountain Center!

Manage Expectations

It's okay to take time for self-care or to take a break from social gatherings. By maintaining perspective, you can connect with what is most important to you about the holidays.

Breathe

When we experience stress, we sometimes hold our breath, allowing less oxygen to get to the brain. Taking some time to focus on our breathing and letting our body do what it knows how to do, can be a shortcut to calm.

Slow Down

Whether you are sipping a cup of tea or folding laundry, shift your attention to be deliberate and thoughtful. Paying attention to the moment can create a healthy focus and curb the feeling of being overwhelmed.

Limit Phone and Computer Time

Being too connected to our phone or computer can put our brain on overload. Set boundaries for yourself to look at your phone less. And avoid screens at bedtime.

Move

Movement gets the blood flowing and brings our attention to where we are. Exercising, taking a walk, or even a quick stretch can reduce stress.

Call a Friend

The voice of a trusted friend or family member can help us calm down and get perspective. Instead of texting, connect by phone — hearing a familiar voice can be calming and comforting.

Meditate

Taking the time to sit down and simply follow your breath can bring you into the moment and help you feel connected. Here are steps to meditate:

• Sit or lie down comfortably.
• Gently close your eyes.
• Don’t try and control your breath; just let your breath flow naturally.
• Focus your attention on the breath, observing the inhalation and exhalation. If your mind wanders, simply bring it back to the breath.
• Spend 5 minutes with this practice.