Happy Holidays

 

       As the year 2020 comes to a close, we can be hopeful that the year 2021 will be better and more fruitful for all.  

      I learned a lot this year, and the main lessons were: I am grateful for what I do have, (including family/friends),  I have my health, and for my        patience  during this difficult time period.  I am also grateful for technology where we can interact with others safely and effectively, I was able to study (becoming a Certified Digestive Mastery Coach soon! to help you) and of course Netflix!  How many shows/movies have you watched this year??

      I was able to rest more than I have in the past, which helped my own health greatly.  We usually tend to overdue in all areas of life.  Have you noticed some areas of your life that you were able to let go of during this time?  Did you have more or less downtime for yourself?  If you have school age children, what did you do each day for yourself?

     How was your stress level? Was it higher or lower than usual?  Stress has been a major factor overall this year for most of us.  What have you done thus far to reduce your stress? As a personal trainer/health coach, one important way to reduce stress is something simple, but so difficult for many.  When I trained my clients in the gym, I noticed that many clients held their tension in their bodies and didn’t fully breathe as our bodies were meant to!  Have you ever noticed yourself or your loved one’s doing this?

If you do notice this, good for you, that’s the first step.  If you don’t, try to get your partner, children or friend to help you notice.  You can feel their back , if tight and no breathing occurs in that area or see if their chest rises up and down enough.

Breathing and breath work are one of the most important things you need to take care of daily in order to keep stress levels down!!

Some ways of doing this are:

1.  Meditation

2.  Simple exercises

3.  Yoga

4.  Brisk walking

5.Present moment awareness & living rather in the past or future

Another way to reduce stress is to have fun! I love board games, words with friends. & cooking.  What fun activities do you like to do during this time period?

Speaking of fun, what are you planning for the holidays?  Most of us will be limiting the amount of people we are celebrating with this year, however, this doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself.

Whether you are alone or with family, plan to Zoom  or FaceTime with a friend or other family members you usually get together with this time of year and either enjoy a virtual meal together or just a cup of coffee/tea and a chat. I recently played the game Trivial Pursuit with my family.  It was a lot of fun!

Wishing you and your family a Peaceful and Safe Holiday Season!