December 4, 2024
The holiday season can be very stressful. According to the American Psychological Association, as nearly nice in 10 (89%) Americans are experiencing stress or feeling overwhelmed during the holiday season. The major concerns were not having enough money, gift-giving, missing loved ones, anticipating family conflict, loneliness, overeating, increased alcohol consumption and so on. Plus, it is a final exam period on campus. Students are under a lot of stress. When I saw the longest line I had ever seen to get Cinnabon on main campus yesterday, I knew students were stressed out. I have to admit... donuts, cookies, and Cinnabon might be the way to get through these stressful exam period. But unhealthy eating (overeaten or eaten unhealthy foods) causes stress as well.
The NC State Extension recently posted an article listing how to cope with stress during the holiday season. The last year's article is also excellent. Please take a moment to breathe. Take a rest. Our bodies as well as minds need time to rest and recover.
Here are the 7 key tips to make your holiday healthy. Please see more detail information for each tip from the last year's article.
Plan your time and finances.
Account for extra expenses
Learn to say No
Healthy substitutions for your favorite holiday meals
Embrace physical activity
Remember to take time for yourself
Cultivate a healthy mindset for the holidays
Wishing you a happy and relaxing holiday season!
Previous Week Next Week