This
time of year is particularly hectic, and along with all the hustle
and bustle of getting ready for the holiday season, comes tension
and stress. For this reason, December is nationally recognized as
Stress Relief Month, because there are several things we can do to
minimize stress so that we can enjoy the holidays and our
families.
Make a list
of all the things you and your family like - and dislike -
about the holidays. Build your own traditions around the
highest-scoring "likes."
-
Get at
least 30 minutes of brisk exercise every day - even brisk
walking is great.
-
Stop eating
when you are full - but don't skip meals, either.
-
Allow
yourself a few holiday treats, but don't overdo.
-
Get plenty
of sleep.
-
Limit
alcoholic drinks to one or two a day.
-
Of course,
do not drink and drive, and fasten your seat belt.
Take care
of your spirit. Give yourself at least a couple of days to do
what you want to do.
Realize
that you are not solely responsible for making the holidays
special for everyone else.
Don't
accept every invitation you receive, or you'll run yourself
ragged. It's OK to send your regrets.
If this
is your first holiday after ending a relationship, getting a
divorce, or the death of a loved one, remove yourself from
reminders of the past. Give yourself new memories by doing
something you've never done before.
Give time
and friendship rather than presents. Share yourself with
family, friends and the community by volunteering at a homeless
shelter, or driving a housebound friend/neighbor around the
neighborhood to see the holiday decorations.
Keep your
sense of humor. If the soufflé looks like a pancake, it's not
the end of the world. Actually, you will probably laugh about
it….next year.
Count
your blessings.
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