Many people get stressed at Christmas time, so here are 5 ways to cultivate calm:

1. Don’t stop exercising just because you have eaten a mince pie – and remember that high intensity exercise, such as Zumba is better for those of us who are a little neurotic!
2. Slow deeper breaths, with longer exhales are the best way to switch on the parasympathetic nervous system – blood pressure and heart rate lowers as do the stress hormone levels. However belly breathing takes practice and is best practised when already calm. Once mastered it is then more likely you will remember to do it when stressed.
3. Getting outdoors with nature is still evidenced as a good way to reduce stress levels – even if it is raining or snowing…and Christmas cards with robins on are telling us something i.e. the sound of birdsong is better for our wellbeing than the trees alone.
4. Connection with others, even for introverts, is a good way of lowering anxiety and reducing low mood…And it doesn’t have to be just friends and family – it can be with strangers too. You might be surprised by the other person- they may well actually be interested in hearing what you have to say!
5. Sharing hugs with appropriate people is also a good way to soothe and boost calmness…. You can even hug yourself with a butterfly hug, Simply cross your arms over your chest and tap your fingers on your upper arms….