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As you glance at the calendar and notice the approaching holidays, do you find it challenging to feel excitement due to the overwhelming sense of responsibility?
The holidays can be especially stressful and overwhelming for caregivers often tinged with sadness. Here are some things I've learned or observed along the way that might help.
1. Focus on what is most meaningful
Perfection is not the goal of the holidays — meaning and joy are. Focus on creating holiday feelings and create good memories.
2. Simplify your holiday activities
It doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing approach. Consider putting out only a few decorations, sending fewer greeting cards, and limiting holiday visits.
3. Start new traditions
Focus on abilities, not inabilities, by doing something new. For instance, if your loved one has trouble getting around, drive through a holiday light display or watch a holiday concert on TV.
4. Adjust meals
Simply menus with fewer items, precooked items, or ordering out.
5. Anticipate holiday hot buttons
Identify activities or relatives that trigger stress or evoke unhappy memories. Consider opting for short encounters and having quick exit strategies in place. Mentally put yourself in a protective bubble, letting negative energy bounce off without hurting, annoying or distressing you.
Whether you're a caregiver or not, sometimes we just have to provide a relief valve for the stress and tensions that often accompany the merriment. Personally, I often use an audible exhale to just "get it out". Try it—take a deep breath in, and as you release it, give voice to the tension. Let your shoulders come away from your ears and audibly sigh. Shrug it off and move forward. I also do a Primal Scream, but if you don't want to freak out your friends and family, that one is probably best to do in your car! Or maybe that's just me.
Ever forward,
Leeza