Take a moment or two for yourself. If you spend the holidays in a state of stress or anxiety, you won’t enjoy them (and neither will the people around you). While there is no way to eliminate ALL the stress of the holidays, you can lower it and reduce your risk of overeating by being aware and taking time for yourself – whether you go for a short walk, take a 10-minute “power nap” or squeeze in this simple breathing exercise, adapted from Dr. Andrew Weill: Sit comfortably on the floor or in a chair, with your back straight. Close your eyes and relax your jaw and teeth. Rest the tip of your tongue lightly against your two front upper teeth. 1) With your mouth closed, inhale through your nose to a count of FOUR. 2) Hold that breath for a count of SEVEN. 3) Exhale through your mouth to a count of EIGHT, letting the exhalation make a “whooshing” sound. 4) Repeat three more times. This exercise naturally reduces mind/body stress, and the more your practice it, the more powerful it becomes.
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