Stress compounds everything, including worry, sleep issues, and overeating. By lowering your stress you create some space where you can reclaim control over your habits and behaviors, and enjoy the holiday even more.

If you've ever found yourself in a negative thinking cycle like I described above, imagining all the worst case scenarios you can use a simple strategy to turn your thinking around.

Reactions and responses may look alike. However, they feel different and can have very different results. Whether you react to a situation or respond to it thoughtfully can mean the difference between a pleasant outcome and a messier situation that leaves everyone feeling hurt and upset.

Let’s take some time this week to relax a little. Taking as little as five minutes a day can shift your focus away from negative thoughts and feelings, lower your blood pressure, and help restore your sense of calm and wellbeing.

Slowing down allows you to be more productive, calmer, healthier, and keep your mind quieter. Try these simple tools for yourself, and create your own Peace!