Blessings and Health

     So much swirling about my head … so little time to get it organized!

            Most of us love the exhilaration of the holiday season, yet sometimes we have to choose between the extra activities and our daily routines. While I am slowly (very slowly) sorting through my many thoughts to present in this space during the coming year, I will share some timely ideas adapted from a recent Waiora newsletter.

     Waiora sells nutritional supplements, hence their plug for more supplements during the holidays. In truth, it’s good advice. My family doubles our supplements during the holidays and have stayed healthy, without so much as a trace of a cold, for several years now.  

EnJoy More — Stress

  Less for the Holidays

     For many people, the holidays bring a lot more than peace and cheer; the pressure of shopping for gifts, baking and cooking, visiting and entertaining can also bring fatigue, stress and depression. In addition to the financial burden we put on our wallets, stop and think for a moment what we are doing to our health!

     Here are some practical tips to help you minimize stress and stay healthy.  

1. Plan ahead and stick to a budget. Set aside specific days for shopping an visiting friends. Before you go shopping, decide how much you can spend on gifts and other items. Then delight yourself with knowing how much your family and friends will enjoy the special items you selected just for them.
2. Set boundaries.  At the end of each year, plan ahead and decide how much visiting and entertaining you can realistically enjoy, then stick to your limit. People will understand if you cannot do certain things. Say yes to those activities that you really want to do. Express your gratitude at being invited to things you choose not to attend. Perhaps plan to host or visit certain friends and family every two or even three years, so you can be fully present and joyful at each event.
3. Stick to your healthy habits. Be sure to get the sleep you need, continue with your exercise routine, take some time for yourself, and eat healthy food. Remember … some indulgence is okay! Savor those indulgent moments. 
4. Seek support. If holidays are overwhelming to you – you’re not alone. There are people and groups you can reach out to such as religious organizations, friends and family, even professional help. 
5. Set differences aside. Be the light you want to see! Try to accept family and friends for who they are, even if they do not live up to your expectations. Accept what you perceive as imperfections in yourself and your family. Remember, if you are feeling tired or stressed, others may feel the same pressure. If something irritates you, how important could it be? Just smile and let it go.
6. Supplement, Supplement, Supplement!  We all know that the stress of the holidays can get the best of us. That’s why it is important to take nutritional supplements just in case we are not eating as well as we should and to keep our immune systems strong to avoid those pesky colds and flus that seem to arrive just in time for the holidays.

     One key to minimizing holiday stress and depression is knowing that the holidays can trigger these things. Accept that things are not always going to go as planned.

     By taking proactive steps to minimize stress and stay healthy, you can find more blessings and spread more joy during this holiday season.