Page 9 - Ulupono December 2019

Turn Your Holiday
Craze into Something
Memorable
By Nicole Deiters
Wellness & Lifestyle Medicine
Holiday, as defined by Merriam-Webster dictionary is “a day marked by a general suspension of work in commemoration of
an event; vacation.” This sounds lovely,
but Webster seems to have left out a few things that come to mind when talking about the holidays such as the numerous parties, the extra cooking, the decorating, the
class parties, the holiday attire, the broken budgets and on and on. And let’s not forget that many of us are still required to work throughout the holiday season. The holidays are never perfect, but here are a few simple things you can do to get the most out of this crazy time of year and turn it into something memorable.
Express Gratitude Daily
When the kids were little, we would collect
a few branches and place them in a vase at the beginning of November. Each night at the dinner table we would write something we were grateful for on a paper leaf we crafted together and would hang it on our branches. On Thanksgiving Day, we would take apart our beautiful centerpiece and read everything we were thankful for together. This is just one way to get into the spirit
of the holiday, but research published by Harvard Health showed that giving thanks can actually make you happier. So whether it’s a few kind words, a thank you note or a gratitude centerpiece, sprinkle a little holiday cheer to others and yourself by expressing gratitude daily. You will be happier for it.
Give unconventional gifts
We all have that one person that is impossible to buy for. Consider instead, saving the budget and making a gift for each other instead. Speaking from years of experience, this will by far be the most anticipated and memorable gift of the year. If crafting isn’t your thing, plan out an “Act of Kindness Day” with your impossible to
buy for person. Volunteer at a local charity, visit a care home for the elderly, prepare something special for your coworkers
that are working on the holiday, or pay for someone’s coffee. The point isn’t the gift itself, rather it’s about making memories and doing something special with the person you love.
Just say No
Saying “no” is a foreign concept to many of us, but the truth is we simply cannot do it all. Before the holiday season starts, sit down with your family and make a plan. Schedule the important events on the calendar and then make a holiday bucket list of things
you want to see and do during the season. Having the most important priorities already blocked off on your calendar will help you determine if you actually do have time for those extras that pop up and it might make saying “no” even easier.
Ditch the holiday hustle and bustle this year and focus on making holiday traditions last a lifetime.
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