The holidays are a great time of year. Families and friends gather and days are spent with laughter and fun. Even though the holidays can seem magical from afar, up close, they can be stressful for anyone and can cause much anxiety.

Physical side-effects of anxiety

Everyone experiences at least a little stress and anxiety during the holidays. But, for some people, it can feel overwhelming and prolonged. Continual stress and anxiety can definitely take its toll on your mental and physical health.

You are meant to feel stress, it can be a life-saving response. But, if chronic, that life-saving response can also have negative effects on your immune system, digestive system, and even your cardiovascular system. Over time continual strain on the body from stress or anxiety can cause illnesses like heart disease, high blood pressure, and depression.

Natural ways to relax

When the holiday season becomes stressful, it can be hard to know where to turn. The natural option may be the best option for relieving anxiety and helping you relax. A simple change in mindset may make all the difference.

Take the pressure off of yourself

It’s the holidays, and nothing is going to go perfectly. A good thing to keep in mind is the fact that it’s ok if things go wrong. Nobody expects you to be perfect and nobody is expecting the day to run perfectly. It’s also not your responsibility to make sure everyone’s expectations are fulfilled. Focus on your holiday and what it means to you. Remember that the people around you love you and that is all that really matters.

Take time for yourself

The holidays are a busy time of year. You may be investing so much into others this time of year that you forget to take time for yourself. Taking just a few minutes for yourself is essential to stay relaxed. Escape for just a bit and take a few deep breaths, maybe try a meditation app, or work on your yoga — any activity where you can have a few minutes alone in the quiet.

The three “B’s” Be prepared, Be realistic, Be grateful

Be prepared to feel stressed. Know that it will happen and figure out a plan on how you will deal with it when it arises. Maybe do your shopping a little early this year. Try to be prepared mentally and in general to avoid anxiety. Be realistic about the holiday and what will happen. Don’t have crazy expectations that no real family can fulfill—that will only lead to stress. Be grateful for those around you and everything good in your life. This is a surprising stress reliever.

Support your body and erase the negative side-effects of anxiety

Sometimes you just need a little more help to get through when anxiety is overpowering you. Instead of turning to traditional pharmaceuticals, this year give a natural supplement meant for calming anxiety a try. Not only could a supplement like Anxiety IQ help relieve your anxiety and get you through the holiday season, but it can also erase the negative side-effects left by years of anxiety.

With unique ingredients like lavender, chamomile, and passion flower, Anxiety IQ can help you get a better nights sleep as well as improve your focus. Nourish your nervous system and support your body’s natural ability to cope with anxiety. Promote a state of calm this holiday season with Anxiety IQ.

There are holiday parties, gifts to buy, and sometimes family, in general, can cause you to be anxious or stress out. Everyone should be able to enjoy themselves during the holidays. Not to mention, continual stress and anxiety is bad on your overall well being. This year, take control of your anxiety and get in on the holiday cheer!