Ways To Relax This Upcoming Holiday Season
Besides the brain and health benefits of painting (like building motor skills, decreasing stress & anxiety, and strengthening memory), painting is just plain fun! Anybody can dive right in and let loose with a brush in their hand regardless of age, gender, or previous experience. Unfortunately, many beginners find it overwhelming and simply don’t know where to start.
That’s exactly why we'd like to suggest a painting class at Pinot’s Palette for you this season, or any time of year! With a few techniques, tricks, and knowledge about your supplies, you’ll be painting your heart out in no time at all.
Remember that no matter the skill-level of painting you have (most of our customers are first-time painters), you will see benefits from a painting class or other creative activity!
You'll feel reduction in stress, will be socializing with friends and family, and will gain a feeling of accomplishment as you try something new, all of which are positive outcomes.
We’ve got some fantastic artwork on the calendar this month, featuring lots of Christmas and Winter-themed art; Come in and make some to decorate your home with, or to give out to loved ones for gifts! Gift-giving and spending time with loved ones are both proven ways to reduce stress so double down on the relaxation this season and join us to make some art!
*** What are some benefits of painting (or other creative activities)
in relation to stress-reduction:
* It can take your mind off things.
Creating art can take your mind off of whatever is stressing you, at least for a few minutes. It's difficult to keep ruminating on your problemswhen you're focused on creating. If your problems stay with you, you can incorporate them into your creations. Once you're done, you should have a clearer head with which to tackle your problems again.
* It can help you tap into a "state of flow.”
Have you ever been so engrossed in an activity to the point of being in a near-meditative state? If so, you might have been experiencing what some psychologists refer to as flow. Similar to meditation, flow can lead to improved performance and lower stress levels.1 You can experience flow when you’re practicing an instrument, playing a sport, or even gardening. You can also experience flow while writing, painting, or drawing.
* It's another form of self-care.
Sometimes, with all of life’s responsibilities, we forget that we need and deserve downtime and self-care. Taking even a few minutes on a regular basis to devote to a hobby can give you more of what you need in this area. With art, you have the additional benefit of being left with something beautiful (or at least interesting) to show for it.
***More Ways To De-Stress This Time Of Year!
1. THINK OF THE GOOD!
There is always a positive way you can choose to see things…
Take a moment to stop and look on the bright side of life whenever you’re feeling stressed out or overwhelmed.
Do you have family coming into town? Lots of dinners to host?
- Appreciate the loved ones that you have, making the holidays and everyday, special!
Are you overwhelmed with all of the gfit-wrapping?
-Be thankful that you’re in a position to be able to give gifts to those you love, and that you have so many special people in your life.
Be thankful for food on the table, good health to get you through the holidays, the cars you own to drive you to see loved ones, and so much more!
(*Ways to be thankful):
https://www....lallyearlong-
2. ENJOY ALL THAT THIS TIME OF YEAR HAS TO OFFER!
From friends and family, to traditions, holiday decor, and cute outfits, there is no other season like this holiday season. Enjoy the baking, shopping, wrapping, and other little things that make this time of year so special. Embrace it all and be happy with the ones you love.
(Enjoy getting dressed up for all of the seasonal events, and check out these trending fashions while you’re at it):
https://www....tideasfor2019
3. TAKE SOME TIME FOR YOURSELF.
You’re really going to stress out if you’ve worked yourself so hard that you’re sick on Christmas Day! Remember to take it easy, get plenty of rest, and nourish your body and mind, even in the midst of the list-making. There is just so much to do this time of year, so don’t forget to practice self-care, just as you should do throughout the whole year. Even if it’s just a foot soak at home or a trip to get a manicure, taking some time for yourself is super important so you can be there, feeling your best, during this celebratory season.
(*11 small but effective ways to take care of yourself): https://www....nd-body.htmlf
4.Create a relaxed holiday environment at work.
Holiday smells of cookies baking or fresh evergreen boughs create a cozy atmosphere and evoke happy feelings. When you're at work or while sleeping, keep the holiday spirit going with essential oils (like lavender) to help calm the mind and body.
5.Accept Imperfection
Can good be good enough? “As we gear up for the holidays, we often set the bar impossibly high for ourselves and then feel upset when our celebrations don’t live up to expectations,” says Gould.
Before you start preparing, acknowledge that things may not go exactly as planned. “It’s OK if it’s not perfect. Imperfection is healthy and normal. For some of us, it might just take a little practice,” reminds Gould.
6.Lastly, we realize that not everyone is eager to celebrate this season, as the loss of loved ones can make such a huge impact in our lives, especially on traditional holidays like Christmas. If you or someone you know has recently lost someone and this will be a difficult season for them, you can reduce your stress (or help to reduce theirs) in various ways, including:
-- Acknowledge your feelings.
If someone close to you has recently died or you can't be with loved ones, realize that it's normal to feel sadness and grief. It's OK to take time to cry or express your feelings. You can't force yourself to be happy just because it's the holiday season.
-- Reach out.
If you feel lonely or isolated, seek out community, religious or other social events. They can offer support and companionship. Volunteering your time to help others also is a good way to lift your spirits and broaden your friendships.
-- And more: https://pall...rief-holidays
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