Recipe For R& R: Making Time For YOU A Priority

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By Mia Bolaris-Forget

The beginning of a new year is usually embraced with lots of verve, enthusiasm and excitement. But, these feeling wane once your back to work and back into the usual routine and swing of things, including the same stresses (and often more) that you had the day and year before.

Experts suggest ringing in the New Year with some stress-busting strategies

· Exercise you options: Whether you join a gym, invest in a trainer, or simply pick up some weights and tune into your iPod, getting physical at least five times a week is a must for your physical and mental health. According to studies and research keeping physically fit and engaging in aerobic exercise several times a week increases you body’s norepinephrine levels and these naturally occurring chemicals help keep emotions in check as well as helping you deal more efficiently with stress.

· Sip some tea: Opt for green or black tea instead of a second or third cup of coffee, especially since caffeinating yourself keeps you on edge and the constant “stimulation” can drain your system.

· Make time for downtime: Even if your one of “us”, those who “thrive” on multitasking, never having any downtime can cause you to feel down. Instead pick one or two days where you leave room for some time for you. In fact, make time management a top priority, and that sometimes includes saying “no” to others so that you can say “yes” to you.

· Find and redefine yourself: Getting a career, starting an adult relationship, living on your own, getting married and/or starting a family may have resulted in you, losing, well, you. Take time to find yourself again and what makes you tick. Then, invest time in what makes you happy. Ultimately it will make you feel better about yourself and about making others happy as well.

· Go au naturale: Bolster your body’s ability to handle stress with some natural herbs known as adaptogens that halt stress from taking a toll on your health. Siberian Ginseng (eleuthero) is known for stabilizing blood-sugar levels and blocking stress from draining your adrenal gland’s supply of essential vitamin C. Other herbs such as American ginseng, rhodiola, ashwagandha, and schizandra act similarly and can be just as effective, especially if taking in healthy combinations.

· Step away from your desk and your computer: Try going back to basics before computers and email. In fact, if you make checking emails a part of your daily (personal) routine, it means you’ve likely disconnected from personal connections and you need to take a step back in time. Instead use your spare time to reconnect with family and friends in person or by phone. Or, you can read a book, take up a hobby, or get up and out, and actually “live” your life. Another option is making this computer time, YOU time, the best gift you can give yourself.

· Make some “classic” moves: According to studies listening to soothing music, especially classical “tunes” makes it easier to relax and unwind, and believe it or not, this can put you in a better mood.

· Let your creative juices flow: Recent research reveals that making your own “artwork” can be therapeutic and relieve even serious stress. In fact, doing anything that you love can take your focus off the negative and put it back on the positive.