JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA –
The holidays are supposed to be one of the most joyous times of the year and studies show this is the case. The majority of Americans do feel positive emotions like happiness, love and high spirits during the season. However, some people experience negative feelings, like anxiety, grief and stress. Many people, trying to create the “perfect” holiday for their families, end up feeling like pulling their hair out. They find it impossible to balance work/social obligations with shopping, decorating, cooking, cleaning and wrapping.
This year, make the holidays enjoyable for yourself and your loved ones. Remember, it’s ok to say “no.”
Take special time for yourself; enjoy a massage, take a nature walk, soak in a long bath.
Schedule no more than two tasks at a time. Keeping the list short allows time for total focus.
Surround yourself with “stress free” people. Those who get stressed out oftentimes are quite adept at sharing “their” stress with you. There is enough on your plate without including other people’s holiday stress.
Finally, focus on your family’s traditions. If you haven’t made any, make the time to do so this year. If you haven’t exercised those old family traditions and remember them to be happy times, rekindle them.
Holidays should be a time of joy and happiness. Follow these suggestions and put smiles on everyone’s faces. If possible, include one new person in your festivities. Start your circle of friends now or make it larger but make sure the circle is warm and inviting.
Happy Holidays Joint Base Charleston!