Managing Your Stress Better During the Holidays

Uncomfortable conversations with loved ones, airline delays due to inclement weather – The holidays can come with a lot of stress. Dr. Brad Lichtenstein was recently interviewed on KING5’s Are you OK? series, which explores mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this episode, he discussed how stress is a normal (and necessary!) part of life, and, with how you, the right techniques, can learn how to become resilient against stress.   

Dr. Lichtenstein’s Tips on How to Become More Resilient to Stress: 

1. Befriend stress.  This is a crucial first step.  No changes can be made before we acknowledge that what we are experiencing is stress, and that is a normal response.   
2. Recognize your body’s reaction to stress. Once you acknowledge that you are feeling stressed, take note of the physical reactions you are experiencing are a reaction to the stress. Sweaty palms, a rapid heartbeat and clenched fists are telltale signs that your body is having a physical reaction to stress. 
3. Focus on releasing tension. Which of your muscles feel tight?  Start at the top of your head and relax each muscle one at a time.  Releasing tension allows you to breathe deeply.  Remember that the physical reaction to stress will not last forever. 

It is impossible to live a stress-free life. Make sure you have the tools you need to effectively manage your stress. Schedule an appointment at Bastyr Center for Natural Health or Bastyr University Clinic today.