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Less Stress During the Holidays. Alyssa Ruiz, DN DNCI Staff Meeting October 2010. “ When you find yourself stressed , ask yourself one question : ‘ Will this matter 5 years from now ?’ If the answer is no, let it go !” Catherine Pulsifier , Author , Words of Wisdom.
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Less Stress DuringtheHolidays Alyssa Ruiz, DN DNCI Staff Meeting October 2010
“Whenyoufindyourselfstressed, askyourselfonequestion: ‘Willthismatter 5 yearsfromnow?’ Iftheansweris no, letitgo!” • Catherine Pulsifier, Author, Words of Wisdom
Review of Stress Consequences • Short term: • Decreased immune system • Fatigue • Memory loss • Mood swings www.mentalhealth .net
Stress Consequences Cont • Long term • High blood pressure • Elevated cholesterol/blood fats • Diabetes/high blood sugar • Increased BMI www.mentalhealth.net
Holiday Stressors • Money • Time • Visitors • Events • Weather • Family
“Stress isnothing more than a sociallyacceptableform of mental illness.” • Richard Carlson, Author, Don’tSweatthe Small Stuff
Relieving Holiday Stress • Lower your expectations. What is really important? Your kids wont remember the “Martha Stewart” decorations; unless they help make them. Your family would rather have your time. • Take care of yourself. You can’t give what you don’t have. Exercise, rest, eat healthy, etc. How to Handle Holiday Stress, Karen Susman
Relieving Holiday Stress, cont. • Ask for help. Involve kids, spouse, family and friends. • Prioritize. If you only had half the time you really have, what would you do? This will help you decide what’s most important. • Shop online or from catalogs. No lines! HowtoHandleHoliday Stress, Karen Susman
Stress is the trash of modern life - we all generate it but if you don't dispose of it properly, it will pile up and overtake your life ~Danzae Price
Relieving Holiday Stress cont • Take time to read holiday stories to your kids. This allows for quality family time and relaxation for all of you • Start holiday traditions that are low maintenance.
Relieving Holiday Stress cont • Do a mental makeover. What are the holidays about for you? • Remember how you felt the day after each holiday last year. What did you think you never wanted to do again. What did your family enjoy the most. • Limit TV- especially the news
There cannot be a stressful crisis this week. My schedule is already full ~ Henry Kissinger
Relieving Holiday Stress cont • Write down all of your stressors. Can you get rid of any of them? Which ones cause the most stress and what can you do about that? • Don’t do anything you will regret in January (too many bills, 10 extra lbs…)
Relieving Holiday Stress cont • The holidays will pass and you will survive. You always do! Is everything as urgent as your stress would imply? ~ Carrie Latet