It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

The month of December is filled with traditions, giving, quality time with family, and highlights what is truly important in life.  It’s not the packages under the tree, it’s the time spent with family and friends.

So with that said, start off by being realistic.  Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanza, try to focus on the meaning of the holiday and rejoice in the history and the traditions.  Forget the tinsel town stuff – that’s where things can get muddled.

Stick to a regular routine.   It will help lessen the stress.  Stick to your regular schedule as much as possible.  Try to take breaks and exercise if you can.

If you are feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to simply say no. Better to sit home on the sofa and watch a good movie with a bowl of popcorn than to be in some place you don’t want to be to begin with.

Set aside time for yourself!  Many of us can feel overwhelmed with the demands of life, especially if you are a family caregiver.   If this applies, start scheduling some time aside for you.  Some activities may be as simple as sitting in your favorite chair reading a book.

Pick up the phone!  Call a family member, a friend, a neighbor, or a former colleague that you haven’t spoken to in a while.  Let them know you are thinking about them.  Share a pleasant memory.  Tomorrow is not promised – tell people how you feel now.

Create with your own hands.  Carve out some time to make a loaf of banana bread or bake some cookies.  Make some decorations. 

Random Acts of Kindness – it doesn’t take much to thank those people who make your life easier every day.  The Amazon driver who makes multiple stops to your neighborhood weekly, the mail carrier who comes rain or shine, the caregiver that gives you piece of mind by making sure your loved one is safe and looked after.  A thank you, a note, even a smile!  Spreading love and kindness is even more important than ever these days.

Wishing you all the merriest and happiest – and peace, love, and gratitude,

Senior Helpers of Greater Oklahoma City