Holidays mean stress for most of us. The kids are out of school; family is knocking at the door. You’re responsible for cooking a 20-pound turkey flawlessly and on-time. Not to mention the decorating, shuffling between family traditions and taking care of grandma. Whoa…deep breath. You’re a 911 dispatcher, you’re used to stress right? No doubt, all of us feel the pressures of the holiday season, so here are three things you can try to help fight stress, stay healthy and stay happy during the holidays.
Go the extra mile – no I’m not talking with friends, family, obligations, or gift giving. I’m talking about you. Get outside, get some fresh air, go for a walk, even if the weather isn’t nice, or its just around the building. Get some steps in. Did you know that just a regular walk can improve your mood? While not a “runners high” this mood boost is similar to a sense of well-being. A recent Psychology Article states, that “If you are feeling disengaged or sluggish, and you desire to energize yourself, take a brisk walk around the block or through the cubicles…Your feelings of engagement will very likely increase, and all those things you might have wanted to be doing should seem less imposing.”
See a Flick – there are tons of great movies in the theaters that come out around the holidays and quite honestly sometimes we all like to be entertained without having to “think” too much. Think about this...you can actually sit there in peace and don’t have to talk to anyone. (talking is frowned upon in movies) Kind of nice for those of us who talk to other people for a living or talk on the phone. Just sitting in silence and enjoying a movie sounds quite nice doesn’t it? (just make sure when you’ve finished the movie you “go the extra mile” back to the car).
Try Cooking something new – Hello Pinterest…! Just be careful here folks. Find maybe one or two recipes you’d like to try, that way you don’t get too overwhelmed with creative trinkets and Pinterest fails. And don’t worry, they don’t all have to be for you. One idea, try making a soup in the crockpot or pressure cooker, then use mason jars to deliver them to neighbors or co-workers, they’ll be thankful for the gift and you’ll feel like a mobile Martha Stuart. Also, as it turns out, “Soup is good for the soul”, BONUS!
No matter what you do during the holidays, be kind to yourself. Your needs are important. Listen to your body. If that means taking a nap, take a nap. (not at work of course) Also, remember the importance of having friends and family close, they might not always be close in the future.
And as always, a special shout out to those who don’t get to spend time with their families during the holiday - 911 dispatchers, you are appreciated!
Thank you!
