Managing the mind and body presents challenges in the season where indulgences can be part of the routine. LeBauer Behavioral Medicine Clinical Psychologist David Gutterman has some tips for maintaining mental health during the holidays.
Gutterman says there are two main keys to managing stress over the holidays. One is keeping realistic expectations of what the season should be like.
“I really encourage people think back historically — what has worked, what they've really enjoyed, and what's meaningful to them," he says.
Moderation is the other key, Gutterman says: behaviors such as overeating, over-drinking or overspending can lead to more stress when the celebrations are over.
“Be kind to yourself through the holidays," he says. "Make sure you're taking care of yourself, and always — both physically and emotionally — have good expectations. And in that regard, it'll be a good holiday.”
Gutterman says taking care of yourself means making sure to get enough sleep, eat properly and exercise.