Rest, Relax & Reset During the Busy Season

While this time of year most of us are constantly on the go, slowing down might be the healthiest thing you can do all month. December tends to hit differently. It’s joyful, magical, busy…and for most of us, it’s also a stress tornado wrapped up in paper and tied tight with a bow. Between holiday events, family, shopping, end-of-year deadlines, and irregular routines, your body is taking on far more than it is designed to handle. When your stress levels go up, so does your cortisol. Cortisol is your primary stress hormone and in small amounts is normal and even helpful. But chronic cortisol spikes…thats when trouble starts.

As many of you have heard Dr. Lindsey say in the office, “your body has a very annoying way of telling you to sit down, shut up, and take care of yourself…” and that usually comes in the form of sickness or your body falling apart. When stress levels stay too high for too long, cortisol begins to work against your health. Elevated cortisol levels can suppress your immune system, disrupt your sleep schedule, increase inflammation, spike sugar cravings, increase anxiety, worsen mood swings, slow digestion, tighten muscles and cause pain. When this happens, it’s not your body failing you, it’s your body’s way of waving a big red flag and trying to get your attention. December is one of those months where the warning signs show up fast if you’re not slowing down.

With that being said, here are some simple, realistic ways to stay grounded and healthy during this time of year:

1. Protect your sleep like the gift it is. Keep a consistent bedtime, no phone 30 minutes before bed, take your magnesium, and lower the lights in the evening.

2. Move your body! Movement helps metabolize cortisol so try some simple walking, gentle yoga, stretching, dancing, or a quick workout.

3. Feed your body well. December is not about being perfect, its about supporting your body by prioritizing protein, staying hydrated, adding in whole foods, taking your supplements, and limiting sugar when possible.

4. Set boundaries for your time. If you’re feeling the burnout, say yes only to things that your nervous system wants to say yes to. So skip the event, rest instead of rush, buy fewer gifts, and ask for help.

The most important thing to remember this month is to listen to what your body is trying to tell you and lean into what it needs. This create a happier, healthier you leading to the happiest and healthiest holiday season!