Stress that comes with holidays is not healthy. It's often a trigger for chronic conditions to flare. I know it is for MS. I have been through this before. Apparently there are three main trigger points for holiday stress: Relationships, Finances and Physical Demands. The Mayo Clinic offers 12 tips for coping with the holiday stress. Mayo Clinic's tactical tips are good for these days, and they are good for the rest of the year, too.
- Start with a positive attitude
- I think a positive attitude is the best tool to enhance every day. Winston Churchill agreed: "Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference." We all have control over our own attitude. We may as well take advantage of it by having a good one.
- Be grateful
- Sometimes it's difficult, but you may have to look in a different way or a different direction. Be grateful for friends and family, for opportunities that are yet to be and for memories or dreams.
- Practice Relaxation
- To start each day, add three deep breaths to your morning routine. Not quick gasps, but slow deep, full breaths.
- Practice Moderation
- Dinner, Gifts, Parties -- You know where you can cut back and where you cannot. Choose what you can do and want to do, and do it with gusto.
- Include yourself on the gift list
- This can cost much or little, or nothing at all. It can be time for yourself, a trinket that makes you smile, or that special something you always wanted. It can even be a massage that will help you relax during this stressful time.
- Smile and Enjoy the Spirit of the Season
- The spirit of the season is what you want it to be. Festive music, laughing children, joy to the world. Enjoy it.
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