The most wonderful time of the year can quickly become busy and stressful, especially as families continue to navigate uncertainty around the COVID-19 pandemic. Seniors who require daily help from a home health aide might not be able to shop, prepare food, or accommodate relatives like they used to, which can make it harder to get into the holiday spirit. Fortunately, there are some simple strategies to incorporate into your routine to boost your mood. 

How to Handle Holiday Stress

1. Exercise

Routine exercise can improve your outlook during the holidays because physical activity releases endorphins. These brain chemicals help reduce pain and create more upbeat feelings. Exercise also allows you to concentrate on a single task, which is a welcome change of pace during a busy season. Taking an afternoon walk or following a chair yoga video is something fun to look forward to and a healthy distraction from anything that might be getting you down.

Talk to your primary care doctor before starting an exercise regimen, particularly if you have a chronic health issue, such as arthritis. Low-impact exercises, such as walking and swimming, help build muscle and stamina without affecting your bones, blood vessels, or joints. 

2. Speak With Family 

Although this holiday season will be very different from the last one, many families are still experiencing challenges and grief, especially if they're dealing with job loss or a recent death. Discussing these feelings with your loved ones and home health aide helps mitigate stress and provides a valuable outlet for everyone to share stories and support one another. 

Whether you're gathering with family or getting together online, try creating a new tradition to lift each other's spirits and honor how much life has changed. While negative feelings can be difficult, holding them in and trying to force holiday cheer can make them more difficult to manage. Creating space for them allows them to pass easily.  

3. Meditate

Practicing deep breathing or meditation helps you remain calm and centered amidst holiday hubbub. Deep breathing instantly calms the mind and body because it triggers parasympathetic nervous system responses, particularly the mood-regulating vagus nerve. 

Taking time to meditate also allows you to picture loved ones and send them good wishes and consider what you want for yourself in the new year. Envision makes you happy, such as scrapbooking and gardening, and remind yourself to take additional steps towards better health, like exercising every day and drinking more water. With regular practice, you might find meditation is the ideal way to bring serenity to your wellness routine. 

If you require a new home health aide or other senior assistance this holiday season, contact Missouri's Priority One Healthcare Services. Since 2011, the agency has proudly served the Greater St. Louis area, providing a full suite of elder care services from compassionate caregivers. Call (314) 776-9066 or visit the website today to learn more about home health aide services. Follow the agency on Twitter for additional senior care insights.