Avoiding Stress During the Holidays in LA
December 1 marks the final stretch in the holiday rush and it seems as if everyone has a never-ending list of to-dos to complete. It’s easy to get caught up in the hype of gift shopping, party planning, decorating, and cooking, all while keeping up with day-to-day errands. Stress can quickly ruin the holidays and it can be hard to stop and relax when there seem to be so many demands.
In order to help relieve the dizzying holiday pressure, here are a few tips for de-stressing:
Step into the Light – The days may be shorter and many residents are cooped up inside office buildings during the week, but a quick break outside during the day to catch some L.A. sunshine can give you a burst of energy to be more productive and positive. If you can’t get outdoors, open the blinds or at the very least try vitamin D supplements.
Calm as a Pescatarian – It can be difficult to avoid holiday sweets, but the more sugary treats you eat, the harder it becomes to feel cheerful. Try mixing in a few servings of fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids each week to help lower the cortisol and other stress-producing hormones in your body. Other stress-reducing foods that are easy to find in California include avocados, oranges, tofu, and walnuts.
Relax in Traffic – Getting from point A to point B can be stressful any time of year in southern California, but with thousands of holiday travelers, it’s more than likely you will be spending some time in traffic this month. Plan ahead and have your favorite music, podcast, or audio book ready before you set out.
When all else fails, remember to breathe and regroup. This time of year is all about being with loved ones and enjoying a break from routine.
The Law Firm of Joseph H. Low IV would like to wish everyone a happy and relaxing holiday season!