Family Health for the Holidays

From Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, one cannot escape “the Holidays” no matter the country of birth or religious tradition. Several faith traditions have holy days and religious celebrations during this time period. It is often a time for more social events and family gatherings.

The holiday season can be so wonderful! The decorations, gifts, and parties are fun for everyone. Religious services may provide deep meaning and fulfillment. Traditional feasts and favorite foods may be anticipated all year long.

There may also be unfulfilled expectations in those family and friend reunions, acute awareness of a lack of family or loss of everything familiar in a new country, squabbles over gifts, arguments in the kitchen, empty places at holiday tables because of death or family disruptions, overuse of alcohol or other addictions.

The holidays are a great deal of fun, joy, laughter, and lots of stress! Encourage family health at the holidays by simplifying the celebrations, acknowledging recent losses, and practicing loving peaceful communication. Simplify by centering on what is really important. Eat well, get plenty of rest, and stick to a schedule. If family dynamics are difficult, practice healthy communication skills by not gossiping, negotiating, and only trying to control the things that can be controlled.

LIFELINE SCREENING

. . . is coming to Pohick Church on December 14 from 9:00 am until 4:30 pm in the Parish Hall. Please look for flyers that will give details and make an appointment to participate in this lifesaving program.