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Health Matters
Holiday Blues F
Here are some tips for you or loved ones who struggle this time of year:
· Set realistic goals and be realistic about what you can and cannot do · Don’t commit to anything until you look at your calendar to be sure that invitation date does not conflict with another important event · Learn to say no. It’s perfectly okay if you cannot attend every party you are invited to. Many times the idea of all of the social events to attend can be extremely overwhelming · Make a list and prioritize the important activities. This can help make holiday tasks more manageable
Stress and Tension
Depression
For most, December is one of the busiest months of the year. Here are some ways to avoid stress and tension:
This time of year can be really sad because of loneliness, the loss of a loved one, or a conflict with a family member, friend or loved one. Here are some ways to help with the sadness that may come:
or most people the holiday season is a fun time of year with parties, celebrations, time with family and friends, and social gatherings. But for many people, it is a time filled with sadness, self-reflection, loneliness, and anxiety. These feelings also differ from person to person. If you don’t get the holiday blues, chances are you know someone who does.
· Use a day planner, your cell phone, or even a wall calendar to keep track of all the events and important dates
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Live "in the moment" and enjoy the present
· Try not to compare this holiday with “the good old days” from the past · Be careful to limit your consumption of alcohol which can increase your feelings of depression · Surround yourself with positive, caring, and upbeat people · If you feel lonely, try volunteering and helping out others · Reach out to a long lost friend or relative and spread some holiday cheer · Get out of the house and out in the sun, even if the temperature is cold. The darkness of the house and lack of sunlight on your body can trigger depression
Family Gatherings For some, family time is great, but for others it can be extremely difficult. Here are some ways to cope with family challenges: · Look ahead to your family gathering with a positive attitude · Try seeing your family members as they are now, instead of letting the roles they once played color your whole view of them · Bring a new game or activity that you think will be fun and not cause conflict · Remember the reason you are together, to celebrate the season, and to spend quality time together
Exercise Exercise should be a part of our everyday lives. Be sure when the business of the holidays comes that your exercise routine does not diminish. Exercise produces chemicals that make you feel better, relieves stress that we all go through, and helps burn all of those extra calories we end up eating anyway. So be sure exercise remains a top priority every day, especially during the busy month of December. So, with a little bit of preparation you can make this a wonderful holiday season. Happy Holidays! Lauren Lacy Fitness Coordinator CHASCO Family YMCA
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Aust in FAITH & FAMILY
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