Tips for staying merry through holiday humbug

This article originally ran in Tulsa World on Dec. 5, 2011. Nancy J. Vitali, R.N, M.S. is a faculty member of Tulsa Community College’s nursing program.

 
By KIM BROWN World Scene Writer

Instead of singing "Joy to the world," many want to stay home and hide.

The holiday hustle and bustle has begun, but 'tis the season for stress and anxiety.

 But before you let the frenzied season drain your energy, it's time to stop and reflect on the true importance of the season.

"First of all, remember it is a day in the year - keep that in mind," said Nancy J. Vitali, an associate professor of nursing at Tulsa Community College. She teaches a stress management course for nursing students and offers ways to keep the proper perspective this year.

 Treat your body well

"If you have an exercise program, for heaven's sake, keep at it," she said. "Keep your routine even through the holidays, and try to get plenty of sleep."

 Vitali said her favorite exercise of choice is yoga, which has double the benefits for the holiday season. In addition to working the muscles, "yoga stimulates the relaxation side of our nervous system," she said. And meditation also helps, she said, but it does not require hours of effort.

"You can start with four minutes, or even one minute," she said. "Take yourself onto the patio or front porch, look at how beautiful the sun and the sky are, watch the birds and breathe."

 Less is more

Think you have to attend all those holiday parties, pick out the perfect gifts and make a giant feast because "it's expected?" Not necessarily so. Your holiday responsibilities are defined by you, Vitali said, not others.

"People get so stressed that they feel they have to do so much for others, that they don't have any time for themselves," she said.

Perspective is priceless

"The reason why I teach this class is so I can learn it - I'm an anxious person by nature," Vitali said.

"I like the Native American (perspective): Look at things as divided by the physical, the spiritual, the mental and the emotional." Next time a day seems overwhelming, take a moment to pay attention to your senses, then sort out how you really feel about the situation, she said.

 Try to stay cheerful - without the spirits

"Drinking a lot of alcohol never helps anything," Vitali said. "If people want to be festive, my hope is they don't let it turn into a disaster area."

Monitor alcohol intake during parties and festivities, and make sure you have a designated driver to get your sleigh home safely.

Time is priceless

"The biggest gift you can give is time. I love that," Vitali said. So, instead of worrying about your season's great expectations, help a friend with hers - go shopping together, help her prep for a party, or wrap gifts.

Kim Brown
918-581-8474
kim.brown@tulsaworld.com