This past year has been one of the busiest ever for the wedding and event world. While you’re undoubtedly happy to be back to work after getting through the pandemic, a jam-packed calendar can definitely lead to an increase in stress levels. As we’re all thinking about the new year—and probably making some resolutions for 2023—taking the time to destress and care for your mental health should be at the top of the list.
That isn’t always easy, though. When you’re running your own business, your goals for the new year are often focused on boosting your bottom line. But the two can often go hand in hand. If you’re happier and less stressed, you’ll be more effective at work and home. Luckily, you don’t need a ton of time—or to make huge lifestyle changes—in order to protect your physical and mental well-being. Read on for some simple ways to stay less stressed in 2023!
Make Time for Friends
When you’re busy with work, the first thing that often gets pushed aside is your own social calendar. But research shows that spending time with friends can make us both happier and healthier. In fact, a study of more than 4,000 adults found that having a positive friend who lives within a mile from you can boost your own happiness by 25 percent.
Connect With Nature
It’s no secret that sunlight boosts serotonin levels. Yet with shorter daylight hours in the winter—as well as the colder temps—we all spend less time outdoors, which can have a negative impact on our mental health. Even if it’s just a brisk walk around the block, try to get some fresh air every day.
Take Up a Hobby
We get it, you’re busy and don’t have a lot of downtime. Luckily, finding a passion—outside of wedding and event planning, of course—doesn’t have to take up a ton of time. It just has to be something you enjoy doing and makes you feel good after you’re done. Some ideas include gardening, playing pickleball, joining a book club, taking an art class (you get the idea).
Turn on Some Music
Research shows that listening to classical music can quiet your mind and relax your muscles, as well as lower your body's levels of the stress hormone cortisone. Even if you’re not a big classical music fan, turn it on for 30 minutes each day (maybe on the car ride to and from work) and see how it makes you feel.
Learn to Meditate
There’s a common misconception that you need to meditate for long stretches to see any benefits, but a 2018 study proved that doing it for short periods of time—known as “micro dose meditation”—can improve cognitive performance.
Get Organized
A less cluttered home and office can help keep stress levels down. Not only will it make you more productive but being surrounded by a less chaotic space can bring on an increased sense of calm.
Sleep Well
It is so important to our health, but good sleep is something that eludes many of us. In fact, stats show that 70 percent of Americans complain that they suffer from a subpar sleep at least once a month, while 11 percent sleep poorly every night of the week. Figure out what is hindering your shut eye (too much light in your room, spending too much time online before bed, a snoring spouse, etc.) and then try to come up with ways to fix the issue. And if you’re suffering from regular bouts of insomnia, be sure to consult your doctor.
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