The Senior Adviser - Minimizing Stress During the Holidays

Minimizing Stress During the Holidays

The holidays embody festivities and fun.  Yet, some people spend more time stressing instead of making merry. While a bit of a worry is understandable, too much is contrary to the meaning of the season and results in nervousness instead of cheerfulness. 

Fortunately, there are ways to reduce stress during the holidays.  Here are some ideas to consider.

·      Decorate in stages.  If you will be decorating, it is best to start early and tackle the task in stages (this holds true for gift-wrapping, too!).  Thus, go about your normal schedule but be sure to set aside an hour or two each week to accomplish your goals. If pulling out all the decorations seems daunting this year, then minimize.  Perhaps retrieve only a large wreath, small-lit tree, or tabletop menorah.  Your surroundings will still have a festive spirit and you’ll preserve your energy for more welcome undertakings.

·      Surround yourself with music.  Music therapy is a college major at some universities. Why?  Music can decrease tension and encourage wellness.  In fact, some experts suggest music is beneficial to the body, mind, and soul.  So, if holiday melodies bring joy to your heart, let them ring throughout your home.  If classical, jazz, rock, or Broadway tunes put a smile on face, make sure your favorites are playing in the background.  Essentially, put on the types of songs that lift your spirits.  Clearly, the holidays are occasions for happiness, not angst.  Music helps the former overpower the latter.    

·      Consider light therapy.  Some individuals experience depressed feelings when daylight is shortened; medical practitioners often call this condition Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).  Naturally, the winter solstice (a.k.a., shortest day of the year) occurs right around the holidays, so SAD can discourage what might otherwise be a joyous time.  A way to perhaps get around this?  Light therapy.  A light box or other appropriate lamp simulates daytime radiance and impressively elevates the moods of many people.  For additional light therapy information, go to http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/light-therapy/MY00195

·      Don’t expect perfection.  Occasionally we have fixed ideas as to how we believe a holiday gathering should play out.  Then, reality enters the picture and messes with our expectations.  Why does this happen?  We put too much pressure on ourselves and sometimes even others.  Subsequently, lighten up and take pleasure in entertaining without preconceived notions.  But your daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren are late again?  Well, they arrived safely and now it’s time to celebrate!  The important piece to take away?  Revel in the moment as it presents itself and try not to dwell on the extraneous stuff.  

·      Think fondly of the past but do not live in it.  It is only natural to recall bygone days.  Remembering a deceased husband or wife, more youthful times, or a healthier body can transport us to ostensibly happier places.  While it’s true the past has presented us with certain treasures, keep in mind the present is treasure material, as well.  Consequently, don’t discount the holidays you are living; they’re beautiful.  And, remember that 2013 festivities will one day fashion your children and grandchildren’s memories, and you want their recollections to be as amazing as yours.  Each moment lived is a gift: strive to accept it with gratitude.

Other thoughts to calm holiday stress?  Ask others to help out with cooking, cleaning, shopping, and have flameless candles glowing about your home (they’re realistic, and some even have effortless, on/off remotes).  

Unnecessary worry around the holidays?  Nah, who needs it!      

 Ross Capobianco is president of Home Instead Senior Care — a provider of home care services to seniors living north of Boston. He can be reached at 781-662-2273 or bostonnorth@homeinstead.com.