I saw a funny, yet not-so-funny quote the other day: “It’s almost time to switch from my everyday anxiety to my fancy Christmas anxiety.” This is a sad but true reality for many people this time of year.

Does the holidays stress you out or do you relish them?  For the most part, I relish them. People are happier (except around the malls), there are fun things to do, and I love all the lights and decorations.  But you may be in the camp that it’s a little bit of both.

This post is for anyone who wants to love the holidays, outings, get-togethers and gift buying but realize there may be something missing.  And you know what, you are right.

There is no coincidence that December is statistically one of the hardest months for people who already struggle with depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. It’s time we stop shying away from talking about these things. Because the truth is, we all know someone who is struggling. That person may even be you.

Even if you wouldn’t call yourself “anxious” typically, the holidays can certainly bring it out in the best of us.  And with the emphasis on giving, we can sure put a lot of pressure on ourselves to keep up with everyone else, which only adds to the stress people carry around this time of year.  

Here’s a great idea for a Christmas gift you can give to your spouse, kids, family, and even yourself – A Healthy You!  Here are a few ideas to help you do just that.   

Have Healthy Expectations – You know that “perfect” is something no one person can be, but in the middle of planning, spending, decorating, cooking, gift-choosing, we can all lose sight of this truth. It’s not about being perfect, mainly it’s about being present.  If you find yourself starting to become frustrated and disappointed, ask yourself: Have I set unrealistic expectations?

Treat Yourself Right – When we get busy with all of our December preparations, our diets may  become a little more sugar based. It’s easy to forget the basics like drinking enough water and consuming enough “good” nutrients in our diets.  It’s important we take a balanced approach and eat the foods that will give us more long-term energy. Things like nuts, berries, and enjoying all the delicious treats in moderation can help us have sustained energy through the long days and nights of December holiday activities.

Combat the Blues – Less sunlight and more time indoors is often a trigger for the winter blues.  That’s why it’s important to make sure you’re getting enough rest and that you are taking some time to be active outdoors (giving you a fresh Vitamin D boost).  This will go a long way to combat the winter blues. I now understand why my parents were so adamant about going to Florida each year during the winter months It was therapy.

Schedule Relaxation – The key word here is “schedule.”  For it to happen, you need to actually put it in your calendar.  What helps you relax? Do whatever that is once a day when you start to feel a bit stressed, or you know something is coming up that typically causes you to stress.  Whether it’s listening to your favorite music, taking a nap, meditation, exercising, streaming your favorite movie, or reading an uplifting book, you need to set aside time to relax.  Making time for yourself to unwind is worth it, especially if you come back more energized and clear-headed. Everyone around you will appreciate it 🙂

Remember, December doesn’t have to be frazzled. While there might not be much we can do about packed schedules, we can balance it out with some simple shifts in our thinking and scheduling.    

Thank you for helping us make 2018 our best year yet.  Our community is growing, and we are very excited about what next year is bringing.  And as always, let us know if there is something we can be praying for you about. We are here for you!

Your Virtual Life Mentor,

Doug