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LEARN HOW TO MAKE OUR TYPE LARGER

Have yourself a merry little Christmas
Published November/December 2001

By CYN LoPINTO
Editor-in-chief, gerontologist

If the recent national events have rattled your nerves and left you feeling on edge, you are not alone. Many Americans are now living life at a heightened level of anxiety. Besides dealing with our daily responsibilities of work and family, we now have the added duty of periodically "checking in" with the news to catch the latest update. Then couple the anger and grief a lot of us are still feeling from September 11th , with the fact that the holiday season is upon us and it is easy to see why tensions are high.

While the holidays are a time for rejoicing and celebrating, it can also be a time of increased stress. We are scurrying from place to place, sleeping less and most likely eating on the run during this period. It is no wonder our bodies and minds feel the pressure.

There are some ways, however, in which we can re-fuel ourselves in order to remain physically and emotionally healthy during this time of year. By taking well-deserved breaks and participating in enjoyable activities, we are better equipped to handle what is expected. None of us can be there for others if we aren't there for ourselves first. This season, in particular, it is important to consider the suggestions below. You will surely have a more relaxing and pleasurable holiday.

Escape

Escape

Watch a movie, read a book, put on some music or go for a walk. Sometimes just getting away from a present situation is all that is needed to feel better. Your frame of mind will improve and you'll return with a new sense of clarity. A change of scenery can really do wonders.

Share feelings

Share your feelings

Often just sitting down and talking things out with someone you trust can make a world of difference. Pick a friend, relative, doctor, clergy or neighbor and say what is on your mind. They may be experiencing similar feelings as well and will welcome the opportunity to share. You'll both feel better.

Help others

One way to change your focus and broaden your perspective is to help others. Volunteering is the perfect way to lift your spirits and feel connected. There are those in situations far worse than yours, and by reaching out to people less fortunate, you'll find better meaning in your life.

Give yourself a break

We may think of ourselves as "Superman" or "Superwoman", but in reality we all have limitations. Unrealistic expectations will only result in high anxiety and a constant state or worry. None of us are perfect. Prioritize what needs to be done. Direct your energy to the things you do well and activities that give you the most satisfaction.

Deal with anger

Deal with your anger

If you feel angry about something, don't bottle it up or lash out at somebody close to you. Talk things out calmly or try to redirect your anger by doing something constructive. Clean out a closet, exercise or wash those dirty windows you've been staring at all month. Often just by performing a physical activity, the feelings of anger will magically subside.

Take one day at a time

If you have a lot of things on your "to do" list this holiday season, try breaking jobs down into a workable time frame. Organize responsibilities by individual days and try not to look at the "whole picture." This is way too overwhelming. Break it down and the workload becomes bearable. Take the more urgent tasks, do them, then go on to the next. Rome was indeed not built in a day!

Cut others slack

Cut others some slack

If you feel under pressure during the holidays, you can bet that others feel the same. If the woman in line behind you at the grocery store makes a rude comment, let it slide. She may be having a bad day and isn't aware of her actions. Instead of being critical, search out the good in others and take the "high road." Show some true holiday spirit and you'll feel good about yourself. Your blood pressure will benefit as well.

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