Tips for a Sane Season

Feeling a bit out of control? 
Is there to much on your to-do list? 

Here are some ideas to stay sane:

Take stock: What is really important to you?  Are you making 35 dozen cookies to mail out to friends because it makes you feel good or because you feel obligated?  Hold onto what truly brings you joy and satisfaction and give yourself permission to let the rest go.

Be choosy:  You don’t have to say yes to every invitation.  Pick the activities you will enjoy and feel are important.  Remember, a simple, “I’m sorry to miss it, it sounds lovely,” is enough.  You don’t need to make excuses or give a long explanation.

Take a break: Leave time for yourself in the midst of all you have to do.  Don’t feel guilty about spending time reading a good book, taking a nap or a bath, or curled up with your favorite holiday special.  Be good to yourself and allow some time to decompress so you are not frazzled.

Be on schedule: Try not to mess with your routine too much.  Protect your sleep.  Eat regularly and be active.  Trashing your regular schedule will make you feel more stressed.

Take advantage: Use your errands, shopping and Mother Nature to help your be active this month.  Take a lap around the mall before you begin -- and check out the sales as you go!  Stop for  a cup of tea while you are out and people watch -- always a good diversion.  Don’t curse the snow!  Thank Mother Nature for the opportunity to be active.

Be Spontaneous:  Don’t be so tied to your list of things to do that you miss the opportunity for fun.  You list will still be there after you build a snowman, dash off for a quick lunch with someone fun or listen to a child tell you about visiting Santa.

Take a breath:  Whenever you feel like you just can’t get it all done, stop, breathe in and out 20 times and just be still. 

Have a sane season!

Please add your suggestions or comments below!

Eliz Greene is a heart attack survivor, author and nationally known speaker on a mission to encourage women to recognize heart disease as their most serious health threat and provide down-to-earth strategies for active and healthy lives.  Learn more about Eliz and the Embrace Your Heart Wellness Initiative at www.EmbraceYourHeart.com