7 Tips For Surviving The Holidays With Your Dysfunctional Family - Page 4
4. Mindfulness or Meditation
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Practicing mindful breathing or quick meditation during the holidays can be an effective way to center yourself and manage stress in family gatherings. By taking just a few minutes to focus on your breath, you activate your body’s relaxation response, helping to reduce anxiety, calm your mind, and regain emotional balance. This simple practice can be done anywhere. The key is to listen to your body. If you feel irritated, excuse yourself and find a quiet spot for ten minutes. This could be on the side of the house, in a bathroom, or even your car. Box breathing—breathing in for four, holding for four, then exhaling for four for five minutes—can help reset emotionally and allow you to re-engage with a clearer perspective.
