Make your holiday season a happy one

With the expectations of the holiday season and some grey days ahead, without knowing it, you may suddenly feel stressed or possibly depressed. For those who do not have family or friends close at hand, it can be a lonely time. It can also be a very stressful time if entertaining or hosting. Here are a few tips on making the holiday season an enjoyable one: • Take time to acknowledge how the season

makes you feel. It is normal to feel sadness if you have lost a loved one or can’t be with them over the holidays. It is ok to express those feelings and let others know how you feel. Holidays are not a happy time for everyone, contrary to what advertising tells us.

• Stay Connected. If you feel lonely or isolated, seek out your local recreation centre or seniors centre and see what is being offered over the holiday season. Most have holiday events open to everyone, and drop in activities such as bridge and social times continue. You may meet others who are in the same situation.

• Plan ahead. If extra visitors make you anxious, plan ahead as much as possible. Make meals ahead and put them in the freezer ready for quick reheating. Shop ahead and have gifts wrapped and ready.

• Change it up. It may be “the way things have always been done” but allow yourself to let go of tradition and try something new. Have the family dinner at someone else’s house? What about a gift exchange instead of individual gifts? Others might also appreciate only having to buy one gift.

• Ask for help. If you need help shopping or preparing meals, call on your friends or local volunteer agency. Most municipalities have a

volunteer service that could find you a volunteer. If you have visitors, let them know where you need help. Most appreciate being able to help out while they visit. • Keep up your regular activities and healthy

habits. Maintain your regular physical activities, schedule your exercise into your holidays. Maybe your visitors will want to join you! Get enough sleep so you have energy during the day, and eat a regular healthy diet. Snack on veggies before heading to a party so you don’t go hungry and overboard on treats.

• Take time for yourself. Whether going for a swim or reading a book, make sure you find something that reduces stress and gives you a few minutes to relax and clear your mind. The holidays can be a stressful and lonely time, but taking steps to acknowledge your feelings and addressing the negative triggers can shift you from dreading the holiday season to looking forward to an enjoyable and relaxing season.For info on activities and events happening in Saanich, call: 250-475-5424 or go to Saanich.ca