Stay Calm and Holiday On
The holiday rush is solidly upon us and we’re hearing patients even speak wistfully of the quiet of last year’s season. We asked Chief Medical Officer Stacy Chance, MD for a few simple strategies for managing stress, avoiding holiday burnout and finding healthier ways to experience the season. Here are four tips to guide you:
Prioritize your physical health and mental well-being by maintaining regular healthy eating, exercising and sleep habits. Watch your alcohol intake!
Set boundaries and manage expectations with family, work and friends. You don’t have to say ‘yes’ to everything!
Make safe decisions about hosting or participating in holiday celebrations. We are still in a pandemic. It’s okay to ask about vaccination status and to make choices for your family. This is a helpful article that might help you navigate. It’s from Thanksgiving, but it applies.
Be realistic. The holidays are about spending time with the people you care about and enjoying what you have. People really do value your time more than a perfect house or meal.