The holidays are around the corner and each day seems to become increasingly busier. While this time of year brings a festive spirit to the air, delicious foods and family time, it can also bring a lot of stress.
Beyond the initial excitement of the holidays, there is the typical underlying anxiety from parties, gift-giving, travel and last minute runs to the grocery store.
What happens to our bodies under stress?
When our bodies are under a constant state of stress, our adrenal glands are triggered to release a hormone called cortisol. Throughout the day, cortisol is released in our bodies in a natural and specific rhythm. When chronic stress increases cortisol levels and interrupts this rhythm, it can have a number of negative effects on your body.
One of the side effects of continually high cortisol levels is a weakened immune system. A weakened immune system means we are more susceptible to allergies.
The last thing you want to happen during this busy season is an allergic reaction.
Here are five tips to help keep your body and mind balanced through the holidays.
1. Say “No.”
This can be a difficult one for all of us, but is especially important during a busy time of year. Understand your limits and know which commitments you should take on and which you should not. Always remember, there is nothing wrong with politely declining or saying “no.”
2. Manage your time and to-do list
Consider what items you have on your to-do list. Which ones can you drop to the bottom of the list? Which ones need to be done that day? Prioritize your daily tasks and focus on the ones that need to be done. This will help you from becoming too spread thin.
3. Move your body
This can mean yoga, running, Pilates, dance…any kind of movement that works for you. Exercise will boost your mood and your energy. Even a brisk 15-minute walk during your lunch break or after dinner will help relieve stress.
4. Treatment at AAS
Sugary foods, stress and alcohol consumption are usually more frequent this time of year with holiday and family gatherings. These repeat offenders may all lead to a weakened immune system, making you more susceptible to allergic reactions. Treatments throughout the holidays can help you feel better and provide relief for symptoms such as indigestion, congestion, irritability, rashes and fatigue.
Allergens often treated during holidays:
- Sugar
- Wine
- Beer
- Gluten
- Wheat
- Dairy
Give these stress-reducing tips a try this holiday season! From all of us at Advanced Allergy Solutions®, we wish you a happy, healthy and safe holiday.