If you have difficulty slowing down with self-imposed deadlines or addiction to the fast pace, here are ways to slow down.
How long have you been promising yourself to slow down and nothing seems to work? You want to free up some time, but can't really stay put, even for awhile. It's because you have conditioned yourself to that pace. Your brain will keep pushing and urging until you find yourself rushed and stressed.
Tips to Slow Down this Christmas Holiday
Recognize your limitations that you can't do everything. Be gentle with yourself. Something has to give and sometimes it's your expectations that apply the pressure.
Take a break. Watch a movie, something light and entertaining, or enjoy a Christmas DVD.
Practice doing a little less than you think you might want to do everyday.
Stay cool if you get stuck in traffic, instead of cursing and getting mad. Be thankful you have a transportation.
Don't answer the phone when you want to relax. Let your answering machine pick up the message.
Allow extra time to get to your appointments. Rushing is often stressful.
Find time to connect to your higher power, a meditative or reflective moment. It is refreshing and invigorating. Perhaps you can indulge in yoga.
Practice making the most of your time and try as much as possible to make it as enjoyable.
Let your spouse or partner shop for gifts for his or her own relatives and friends.
Do one thing at a time and enjoy doing it, whether you're baking Christmas cookies, or playing with the kids.
Find time for bubble baths, either alone or with someone special. Add soothing music, and floating flowers in the water.
Make a list, write it down when you have too much on your mind. Stop the mental clutter by getting it onto paper. It works!
Be not guilty if you sleep late at least once a week. Go ahead, enjoy the DVDs you borrowed or a late night TV show. Perhaps you can treat yourself to a concert and ask a friend to be with you.
Quit going to meetings you don't look forward to or being with people you don't really want to be with. If you need an excuse, blame the added activities during the holidays.
Be patient with yourself if you're undergoing a change, for example, a move to a new place, grief from a loss of a loved one or a separation from divorce. Remember that change is a process, not an event.
Get rid of your car phone, if you plan to drive around. You don't have to be accessible each minute.
Mass-produced holiday letters to keep in touch might not be acceptable in the etiquette books, but your family will agree they're better than nothing at all.
Get other family members to help you, unless you are alone. Decide what chores don't have to be done perfectly. Be generous with praise after the tasks are done or treat them out.
By slowing down, you minimize stress instead of being victimized by it. Happy holidays and enjoy the season.
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