Focus

There are lots of things trying to influence us to buy as much as we can this time of year, but for most of us in this economy that's really not prudent. It's important we stay level headed and focused in times of stress, I know Johnny really wants that Xbox with the Kinects system but will life really suffer if  he only gets a Wii? Stress like this can cause us to lose focus and look to comforts like sweets and high GI carbohydrates, or over indulgence in alcohol which leads to low inhibition and more sweets and carbs. I have a few suggestions that may help; Meditation, it may seem gimmicky or weird but it can really help you calm down and achieve comfort. When you feel stressed try sitting in a comfortable position in a quiet place close your eyes rest your hands on your lap and concentrate or your breathing at a slow, steady, and calm rate. Think of your breath pushing and pulling the needle on a very slow metranone. The object is to eventually empty your mind and think of nothing, yes silencing your mind is very difficult but the practice can be a great help for stress and even general mental health. Start by practicing for 2-3 minutes try to get up to 10-20 minute sessions. Exercise can also be a great stress reliever, if time is short try stretching for 5 minutes then do 20 burpees followed by 20 push ups then 20 crunches or leg lifts. That little bit of exercise is enough to change your focus get your heart rate up expend some of that pent up energy that comes from frustration.