Surviving the Holidays

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Surviving the Holidays

7076667706 • November 4, 2022

Find the JOY in the Holidays

The holiday season can bring mixed emotions for many. For some, it’s their favorite time of year. For others, it brings feelings of sadness and loss. Seeing old friends and family members may be exciting or may bring up memories of disappointments.

Feeling depressed or anxious is not unusual during the holiday season. Upcoming dinners, parties, and other family or friend gatherings may cause a great deal of stress. These feelings may be even worse for those who have experienced divorce, loss a loved one, or are living far from family and friends.

Here are some tips to “beat the holiday blues.”

1. Keep your regular routine.

A change in routine can lead to additional stress. Try to exercise at your usual time, go to meetings that you normally go to, and stick to your normal diet as best you can.

2. Think moderation.

While it may be easy to drink and eat too much at parties and special dinners, we should try not to overindulge with food and/or alcohol. Remember, eating and drinking may feel like it temporarily “eases the pain” of the holiday blues, but it can also lead to feelings of guilt.

3. Be realistic and try not to expect the “ideal” holiday.

So many of us have an idealized version of what the holidays should be like and are very disappointed when they don’t live up to those expectations. Try to be realistic. Remember, nobody has a perfect holiday or perfect family.

4. Stay connected.

Make sure to leave time to spend with friends and/or family who value you. And if they don’t live close by, call them for a quick chat. Remember to ask for support if you need it.

5. Throw guilt out the window.

Try not to put unreasonable pressure on yourself to be happy, to rejoice, or even to enjoy the holidays. Likewise, try not to overanalyze your interactions with others. Give yourself a break this holiday season.

6. Don’t be alone if you don’t want to be.

If you anticipate spending the holidays alone, try to volunteer somewhere, like in a soup kitchen, with children in group homes, or the elderly in various facilities. People will appreciate your thoughtfulness and you’ll have company.

7. Just say no.

It’s ok to say no when you are asked to do more than you can. It’s reasonable to say no to some invitations and acceptable to say no to those asking for favors.

8. Ask for help.

Holidays are often a time people attempt to take on too much or do too much on their own. It’s ok to ask for help from family and friends. Whether for decorating, shopping, cooking, or a shoulder to lean on, ask.

9. Be good to yourself.

If you’re feeling blue, pamper yourself. Do what feels good, and what you want to do. Try to take a walk or spend time alone if that’s what you want. Remember, this is your holiday too, and you can be there for yourself just like you try to be for everyone else.

The holidays come once a year and only last for a few weeks. Try out some of these tips for more joy and less stress.

Have a peaceful holiday season!

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Six Healthy Habits for 2025

By Lorna Fedelem MD • January 16, 2025

Many people set New Year’s resolutions to improve their health, but these resolutions often fail due to unrealistic expectations or vague goals. To improve your chances of success, it’s important to set specific, attainable objectives and take small, manageable steps that can easily become part of your routine. Here are six practical and achievable health-related resolutions to help you stay on track throughout the year. 1. Lose Weight and Keep It Off Losing weight is a common New Year’s resolution, but it’s important to approach it with patience. Rather than opting for quick fixes or fad diets, focus on gradual and sustainable weight loss. Aim for losing one to two pounds per week, a healthy pace that is more likely to lead to long-term success. Pair a balanced diet with regular physical activity and focus on making lasting lifestyle changes. Consistency and persistence are essential to keeping the weight off and maintaining a healthy body over time. 2. Eat a Healthy Diet Eating a nutritious diet is key to overall health. Start by incorporating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your meals. Foods high in fiber, such as fruits and vegetables, help you feel fuller for longer, which can reduce the chances of overeating. Mindful eating is another important aspect—slow down and savor each bite, allowing your brain time to recognize when you’re full. 3. Sit Less, Move More Committing to a full workout routine can be intimidating, especially for beginners. Instead of focusing only on formal exercise, aim to increase your daily movement. Small changes, like parking farther away from the store, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or stretching during TV breaks, can add up to significant increases in physical activity. These small adjustments can help you become more active and, as you gain confidence, you may feel inspired to incorporate more structured exercise into your routine. 4. Schedule an Annual Checkup Good health isn’t just about diet and exercise—it also involves regular medical checkups. Scheduling an annual visit with your healthcare provider allows you to catch potential health issues early. Even if you feel healthy, it’s essential to schedule screenings and other health assessments. This yearly checkup is also an opportunity to discuss any concerns with your doctor and stay proactive about your well-being. 5. Take Steps to Reduce Stress Chronic stress can have a negative impact on both mental and physical health, making stress management essential. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness meditation, or short walks can help lower stress levels. Taking even a few minutes each day to relax can help you build resilience and improve your ability to handle challenges. A balanced approach to managing stress will enhance both your mental and physical well-being. 6. Get More Sleep Adequate sleep is crucial for both physical recovery and mental clarity. Create a calming bedtime routine, reduce screen time before bed, and ensure your sleep environment is quiet and comfortable. If you continue to have trouble sleeping, consulting a healthcare provider may help you identify solutions. How to Stick to Your Resolutions Setting resolutions is just the first step; staying committed requires consistency. Make your goals specific and realistic, breaking them into smaller, achievable steps. Track your progress with tools like fitness apps or journals, and celebrate milestones along the way. Remember that perfection isn’t the goal—if you slip up, simply refocus and keep moving forward. By making small, consistent changes, you’ll be on your way to a healthier, happier year