#Know-Yourself
Handling Adversity with Fabulosity
If you could use some positive energy or added inner-calm, here are a few quick and easy strategies to help you cope:
1. Practice positive self-talk.
- If you feel overwhelmed, remind yourself: “I can handle this.”
- If you’ve made a mistake, remind yourself: “Everyone messes up. I can fix it.”
- If it can’t be fixed, ask yourself: “Does it really matter?” Probably not.
- If you feel like you’re failing, remind yourself: “I have value. I am worthwhile. I am loved.”
Upbeat Mantras
Speaking these or other upbeat mantras to yourself out loud can change your thinking and reduce your stress.
2. Eat calming foods.
Research has shown that:
- A bowl of oatmeal or a piece of whole wheat toast helps your brain make more serotonin, which can improve your mood.
- Nuts, like almonds, cashews, peanuts, walnuts, and seeds, like pumpkin, sesame, and sunflower can lower your risk of depression by 23%.
- Avocados reduced anxiety in women.
- Eating more fruits and vegetables is linked to lower rates of depression.
- Dark chocolate lowers the risk of depressive symptoms.
3. Remember the basics:
- Slow down, breathe, calm your body and mind. A brief moment to center your Self can help you navigate the craziness and maintain your sanity.
- Drink plenty of water, especially if you’re eating more and drinking alcohol. Staying hydrated improves both energy levels and brain function.
- Sleep. Skimping on our rest usually means we end up cranky, listless, stressed, and sick.
- Take a walk, rake some leaves, go to the gym, or do jumping jacks in your living room. It doesn’t matter. Just get your body moving. Physical activity improves mental and physical health.
- Don’t spend more than you can afford. The holidays are not about commercial goods, so don’t get caught up in a spending frenzy that may create stress or hardship in the coming year.
