As we are in the middle of the busy holiday season, it can be a stressful, hectic time for many people. Here are three strategies you can do daily to maintain your emotional environment to stay sane, happy, and healthy.
1. Daily Gratitude List - Writing out a daily gratitude list is a transformational exercise. It helps to keep you focused on what you are grateful for in your life rather than being bogged down by the negative things that pop up for you. You can do this any time of the day or night. You may have a particular time you can commit to, which is the most important thing. The key to the success is to do it daily, or as often as you can. When your mind focuses on positive things, it helps to create more positive things in your life. You are resonating at a higher frequency and can attract positive things.
Take just a few minutes each day to journal about what you are grateful for. Here are two different methods of thinking about gratitude. You may choose to do one or both.
Method 1: Each night before bed, write down at least five things you are grateful for that happened that particular day. There may be some days where you have a long list and other days where you struggle to come up with even one thing. Commit to five grateful things, no matter how small they are. For example, if all you did was get out of bed that day, it is a win and something to be grateful for.
Method 2: At some point in the day, write out a pre-emptive gratitude list. These are the things you want to create in your life. Write them as if they have already happened and you are thankful for them. For instance, if I wanted to create attracting my ideal partner, I might write out: I am grateful for attracting the love of my life who supports and nurtures me.
2. Exercise - I strongly recommend you create an exercise routine that works for you and your schedule. It could be as simple as walking three to five times a week for 30 minutes (even better if you do it daily). It could be more extensive with attending classes, hiring a personal trainer, or other physical activity. Exercising is not only good for your physical body; it is amazing for your emotional body as well. Working out helps to move the energy through your body and to clear your mind. It releases endorphins making you feel better. Regular exercise will help your body to feel better and keep you healthy. It will help you to feel better about yourself and how your body looks and acts.
3. Eat Healthy - With all of the holiday parties and gatherings you may be attending this season, it’s important to fuel your body with healthy foods. This doesn’t mean that you can’t indulge in yummy holiday desserts and drinks, just keep everything in moderation. Before you go to a party, eat healthy greens and protein to keep your body from craving too many “bad” foods. This will help you to not overeat as well. The food you eat directly affects your emotional environment, so be conscious of what you are putting into your mouth.
4. Self-care - Create a self-care routine you love and are excited about. It might be getting regular massages. It could be getting manicures and pedicures. Maybe you like yoga. There might be a local meditation group you join. Whatever it is, start a routine and make it a priority in your schedule. When you take care of yourself, you will feel better emotionally, and it will help you to be in good place when interacting with the people in your life.
Make a commitment to take care of your emotional environment daily, using whatever strategies that help you to feel better and keep your energy high. Happy Holidays!