CHI - St. Anthony

Chill out, don't stress out! Simple ways to keep your holidays festive, not fretful. New Traditions for a WholeHeart The holidays seem to be packed with activity—and high expectations. Rod Harwood, Director of Mission Services at CHI St. Anthony Hospital, encourages people to change traditions. Ask these questions: Does this tradition meet my needs? What is this tradition trying to accomplish? Can I make a new, more meaningful tradition? "If we don't know why we're upholding a tradition, maybe it's time to do something differently," Rod says. "The importance of tradition is to pass on a memory or give us a moment to reflect. If it doesn't fulfill those needs, find something new." Get Ahead of the Holiday Blues Stress aects our entire being, physically, mentally, and emotionally. Physically, it aects nearly every bodily system, from the cardiovascular system—an increase in heart rate— to the nervous system, or the body's ght or ight response. During the holidays, stress can be heightened by obligations, family, and traditions. Rod Harwood, Director of Mission Services at CHI St. Anthony Hospital, says starting healthy habits before holiday stress arrives is key. "I encourage people to identify what they need to do to relieve stress on a daily basis, not just before the holidays," Rod says. "Physical activity, healthy eating, and caring for your emotional and spiritual health are crucial components to staying balanced." Make mental and physical health a priority. Taketime for a 30-minute run or walk, meditate or pray, or spend quality time with a friend for supportive listening to help alleviate stress. PINPOINTING STRESSFUL SITUATIONS According to Rod, stress doesn't just aect the individual— it aects others, including family, friends and colleagues. Consider these tips for reducing stress: Set a budget for spending on gifts or gatherings. Talk to your family about it. Excessive spending and credit card bills compound holiday tension. Learn to say no. There are a multitude of events and commitments this time of year. "Saying yes to every activity or invitation adds stress," Rodsays. "Understand that when you say yes to one thing, you likely have to say no to something else. Set realistic expectations for yourself." Consider volunteering. Connect with your community by giving your time or talents. Giving back doesn't have to mean a nancial contribution. Volunteering builds an immediate sense of community and relieves feelings of loneliness. Get involved as a volunteer at CHI St. Anthony Hospital. Visitsahpendleton.org/volunteer. "Take a breath. Take care of yourself." ROD HARWOOD, DIRECTOR OF MISSION SERVICES "Take a breath. Take care of yourself." ROD HARWOOD, DIRECTOR OF MISSION CATHOLIC HEALTH INITIATIVES /// sahpendleton.org 5

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