View\/Download PDF Version<\/a><\/p>\n\u2019Tis the season for nonstop stress. Here\u2019s how to keep the \u201cHo ho ho\u201d in your holidays<\/i><\/p>\n
The holidays are the time of year when family and friends gather for good food, good laughs, and good company. But with the endless parties and dinners, family reunions and gift exchanges, the happy holiday season can quickly turn hectic. Luckily, there are strategies to call on to cope with holiday stress. Psychologist Christine Ratto Ziegler, PhD, of the Hudson Valley Center for Cognitive Therapy in Upper Nyack, finds that advance prioritizing is useful. \u201cTime and energy are finite resources and need to be budgeted in a similar way as you might budget your money during the holiday season. We can stretch ourselves too thin by saying \u2018yes\u2019 to every invitation we receive. Be selective and try to avoid taking on new commitments. The adage \u2018Less is more\u2019 is especially true in terms of enjoying the fewer things you choose to do,\u201d Dr. Ziegler says.<\/p>\n
Taking some time to get physical is also likely to lessen the stress. \u201cRegular physical activity is consistently shown to improve mood. Think about how you can adjust your exercise routine rather than eliminate it altogether during this time,\u201d says Dr. Ziegler says. \u201cAlso try to spend some time in natural sunlight, which can help boost your mood.\u201d And if all else fails, says Dr. Ziegler, and you feel overwhelmed, engage in an activity that has nothing to do with holiday preparations. In addition, make a list of everything you need to do and break it down by week or day to make it more manageable.<\/p>\n
Or, try one of these homegrown solutions to banish the humbugs:<\/p>\n
Take a gyrotonic class<\/h2>\n
Siobhan Roberts, who opened Arch & Curl in March, offers a Gyrotonic class that makes use of a pulley tower and other specialized equipment. The practice enhances breathing, strengthens the abdomen and extends the length of the spine. \u201cMany who sign up are hunkered down over their desks and computers and find they have lower-back challenges.\u201d While one class may help, multiple sessions offer improved results. A private class is $85. Arch & Curl, Hudson. 845-417-3659; www.archcurl.com<\/p>\n
Unwind with a cuppa tea<\/h2>\n
There are hundreds of tea varieties at Harney & Sons, but we suggest the \u201cYellow & Blue,\u201d a mix of chamomile, lavender, and cornflower. It has a calming effect, particularly at bedtime. The tea comes in a tin of 20 sachets for $5.99 and as loose tea leaves for $22 per pound. Harney & Sons, Millerton. 518-789-2121; www.harney.com<\/p>\n
Read some pretty poems<\/h2>\n
Poetry can be relaxing, inspiring, contemplative, and a window into other worlds. At the Inquiring Minds Bookstore, one employee is studying to be a poet. His suggestion? Mary Oliver\u2019s book of poetry Dog Songs (Penguin, 2013) because \u201cthey\u2019re lighthearted, make you feel good and are wise.\u201d He also suggests Billy Collins\u2019 new collection, Aimless Love (Random House, 2013). Inquiring Minds Bookstore, New Paltz & Saugerties. 845-255-8300; www.inquiringbooks.com<\/p>\n
Get a massage<\/h2>\n
Hand & Stone\u2019s Swedish massage involves long, fluid strokes of muscles and tissues with pressure that varies from light to medium to firm. First-time guests can snag a 50-minute massage for $59.95. Hand & Stone, New City. 845-708-0808; www.handandstone.com<\/p>\n
Take a cooking class<\/h2>\n
Holly Shelowitz, owner of Hudson Valley Cooking Classes, hosts a variety of classes at Warren Cutlery\u2019s Kitchen and Bath Showroom in Rhinebeck. Classes feature recipes with fresh ingredients prepared to bring out maximum flavor, while Shelowitz gives helpful nutrition information and time-saving tips. Wannabe chefs help Shelowitz with preparations that end in a full meal or tasting. Plus, participants get to take home a recipe package. Her Delicious Desserts class on December 17 will have you whipping up lemon almond cake with lemon curd, chocolate chip cookies, spiced pumpkin pudding, and dark chocolate bark with pistachios and cherries, all naturally gluten-free and made with natural sweeteners. Each class costs $125. For more info, call 845-658-7887.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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