The doctor reveals 6 simple ways to be less stressed over the holidays

Santa isn’t the only one who could use a helper this holiday season.

It’s hard to stay in good spirits when you’re strolling through crowded stores, post offices and airports, spending gifts amid inflationary pressures and spending time with family after a contentious election.

If stress is preventing you from getting through the season, Dr. Michelle Loy six tips to ease anxiety during holiday chaos.

“At this time of year, people’s routines can become unusual. As we prepare to celebrate, it’s even more important to stick to a routine of healthy practices that will ultimately help you achieve a healthier mindset,” says Loy, an integrative medicine doctor at New York-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine said as part of the Health Matters series.

Prioritize whole foods

Loy recommends avoiding processed treats and instead opting for healthy foods that provide energy, fiber and disease-fighting nutrients. This may be easier said than done during the holidays.

“I always tell my patients to focus on adding rather than restricting or withdrawing,” Loy told The Post. “Come from a mindset of abundance and push away what doesn’t serve you.”

Loy suggests simple alternatives, such as desserts with natural sweetness.

Favor dishes with seasonal vegetables like onions, celery, garlic and mushrooms, which contain anti-inflammatory phytochemicals. Fruits such as pomegranates and blueberries can also support our immune system.

Stay active

Don’t let the holidays get in the way of your workout routine.

It’s important to stay active to control blood pressure, cholesterol and weight, improve sleep and reduce stress.

Loy encourages exercise outdoors when the weather permits. Sunlight exposure sets our body’s internal clock in motion, affecting food-seeking behavior, sleep and mood.

Get enough sleep

Loy recommends sleeping seven to nine hours per night to support immune function, reduce the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure, promote concentration, memory and cognitive processing, and reduce anxiety and emotional stress.

If you have trouble sleeping for that long, Loy recommends getting some morning light, practicing deep breathing and mindful movements like yoga or stretching to relax your body, and developing a bedtime routine that doesn’t include screen time (think herbal tea or a bath). , a book or a diary) and make the bed in the morning.

“Climbing into a made bed prepares the body for a good rest,” Loy told The Post.

Embrace the moment

‘Tis the season for joy – you can find happiness by living in the moment and doing small acts of kindness.

According to Loy, smiling at a stranger while running errands increases the release of the “love hormone” oxytocin, which improves our mood and well-being.

Clear out the clutter

Decluttering can help you have more control over your space and your life.

Giving away items you no longer need can be a small act of kindness that strengthens a positive attitude, Loy shared.

Practice self-care

Remember to find time to do the things you enjoy while you’re running around buying gifts for everyone else.

Forget your to-do list and electronics and enjoy a soothing bath or a warm cup of herbal tea for your mental health, Loy said.