In fact it raises our heart rates, shuts down our digestive systems leaving us physically and mentally exhausted. So here’s some tips to ensure that you survive to enjoy a brand new year.
Top tips for stress-free shopping
• Do all your present shopping on one day. It focuses the mind. Shop via the internet to avoid crowds, queues and parking problems.
• If you go to the shops, don’t stop for coffee. Caffeine makes the body release cortisol, the stress hormone, which leaves you feeling tense. Instead take a bottle of water with you.
• Stuck in a queue? Try this yoga breathing technique. Breathe in for four counts, hold it for 16 counts, breathe out for eight counts. This will boost your levels of the 'happy hormone,' serotonin.
Get our free guide to managing Christmas stress from www.stress.org.uk, or email info@stress.org.uk with 'Christmas Survival’ in the subject bar.
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