This week's challenge: Managing Stress during the Holidays:
-We all face stress in our lives especially more-so around the holidays! Higher levels of stress have been linked to weight issues, stress-eating and multiple health problems. Find 3 ways you can better manage your stress around the holidays (this can apply any time of the year as well). At the beginning of this week post a spark blog or on a team thread and share with your teammates the 3 things that may help you successfully manage your stress levels.

Stress is a big one, and I am a major stress eater. And stress not sleeper. And stress sit in front of the computer and refresh pinterest instead of actually doing something because I'm paralyzed by the stress and tired of it all. So here's what I know works, and need to practice doing.

1. Dumping my brain out. Not just in the form of to do lists (because then I stress about getting them done--although sometimes helpful to write something down so I don't forget) but just getting all the thoughts and such out of my head. The worries, the frustrations, everything. But also some of the good stuff--getting it out validates it as well and so I can feel good about those things.

2. Yoga. I've found this really reduces stress, forces me to stop, focusing on breathing and taking everything in and just slowing down. (and then working my arms so hard in plank pose that they shake, but that's good too).

3. Taking some time for myself. I'm something of an introvert but in a job that requires lots of contact with people and then a busy family that is involved with lots of school, scouts, sports, etc. Sometimes I need to just take the time for myself, enjoy some peace and quiet, and not feel guilty for doing that.