14 Dec 2018 Tips for Keeping in Balance at this Time of Year
It is mid-December in Holladay, Utah, and the holidays are in full swing. It seems like no matter how “low key” you try to make December, there are too many things that pile up on the calendar. Perhaps it’s school band and orchestra concerts, work parties, or family events. Even though Christmas is a few weeks away, you may already be feeling exhausted. But then there are all the fun holiday traditions. Whether it is sending holiday cards or decorating gingerbread houses, each of these traditions warms our hearts but also stresses us out more and more.
Some of you may be wondering how you are going to be able to get everything done that you need to in the next few weeks. At this time of year, more than any other, many people are stretched too thin. Well we want our loyal patients as well our new dental patients in Utah to be healthy.
Is there a way to enjoy the holidays, instead of being stressed out by the holidays? Is there a way to make it to January not utterly exhausted? The answer to both of these questions is yes. The key to enjoying the holidays is finding balance. Here are some tips to helping you to stay healthy and energetic, even in December.
- Just say no. I know it sounds hard to do, but it will get easier the more you do it. You might need to say no to your kids, the PTA, or even to yourself but you must set some limits about what you are going to do and not do with your time this holiday season. Sometimes it’s hard to say no when you have to choose between two good activities. Just remember that some things are good, some are better, and others are best. Choose to do the things that bring you and others the maximum amount of joy this season. Other good things, may have to be eliminated this year. Your kids will still have a wonderful Christmas, and the PTA will still be functioning, even without your help this time. Eliminate something from your calendar. Creating some down time in your schedule will help you and your family to enjoy Christmas even more.
- Go to bed! Since there are not enough hours in the day to get everything done, many of us are tempted to stay up late working on that special Christmas present for someone or to watch TV and try to destress from a busy day. Not getting enough sleep night after night really makes getting through each day harder. Maybe you have started needing more ibuprofen or more caffeine. Sleep is the best way to rejuvenate our minds and bodies. When our bodies start getting worn down, that is when we get sick. Getting enough sleep with help you balance out the craziness.
- Make time for healthy habits. Plan time to exercise. Brush and floss your teeth. Drink water. Keep doing the habits that help you keep in balance the rest of the year.
A little self-care will go a long way this season! We love sharing our tips for dental health but we also care about our patients overall wellbeing. So, take some time to take care of yourself and let those habits roll into the new year.