The holidays are some of the best times of the year but are no fun when you are burnt out and tired. From cooking turkeys to decorating, and shopping, this time of the year can be very stressful and hectic, especially during the coronavirus pandemic. Here are five ways you can relax and reset throughout the holiday season.

1. Take a Breath & Do Some Yoga

When you're really busy and stressed try yoga. A number of studies say yoga is really helpful for reducing stress and boosting your overall mood.  Yoga can also help improve fitness, flexibility, and strength. Whether you decide to take a class at a local studio or join a virtual class online, this tried and true exercise is a win-wi⸺ you get more fit while reducing your stress. Since yoga works both the mind and the body, it will also help prepare you mentally for whatever the holidays throw at you.

2. Listen to Music

When you have the holiday blues, music can be really helpful with brightening your mood and calming you down. Music has shown to help reduce anxiety and stress levels by 56%. Since it is the holidays, it’s more than fitting to play holiday classics, say “Let it Snow” or “Jingle Bell Rock,” which can not only boost your mood but put you in the holiday spirit.

3. Get Some Fresh Air

If the weather isn't too cold, spending a lot of time outside can help ease holiday chaos. Nature has many health benefits including lowering stress. Try going on a stroll down the block, an easy trail, or around the neighborhood. Walking is an amazing way for keeping you fit and healthy through the holidays. Being outside also has many benefits for your mind. It can help you to be more creative or simply “escape” from everyone and everything for a little bit.

4. Watch Movies Solo or With Your Loved Ones

Watching movies can be a fun, quiet way to relax and wind down from the day. With so many streaming companies offering just about everything from classics to comedy to new releases, you’re bound to find something to keep you entertained and take a break from thinking, planning, or worrying. So get yourself a blanket, grab some snacks, and choose a good flick that will help you relax and reset.

5. Reflect

We know this year has been . . . well, interesting to say the least, but during the holidays, reflection helps you think of all the wonderful things you did this past year. Thinking of all the amazing activities, fun memories, and what you accomplished, will boost your mood because it will take you back and make you think happy thoughts. When you think happy thoughts, you get a boost of serotonin, which is the happy hormone that helps manage stress.

What are some of the ways you relax during the holidays? Comment below!