Boxing Day Blues can sometimes strike when all the awaited festivities are over.
- Write that Thank You note to someone who went out of their way to make the holiday special.
- Plan a trip to the zoo. Christmas antics aren't just for people.
- Arrange some time to go for a walk in the neighborhood to enjoy the lights, decorations and all the sights.
- Let yourself relax with a good movie or go out to a show.
- Invite someone you haven't seen in a while for coffee and a good chat.
- Go out and play in the snow (if you have any). Bundle up with those new scarves, hats and mitts.
- Start a new hobby. Scrapbooking, knitting, crocheting, drawing or woodworking. Coloring pages are still a great way to relax too.
- add your own ideas here.......
All the expectations, disappointments and let downs seem to disappear when you have a plan in mind. Just writing a note can help you get through that emotional build up of the past month. Going out to park, zoo, or being with a good friend, can give you a release for all the frustrations you may have felt or are still feeling. It's hard to stay disappointed when you are at the zoo checking out all the Christmas treats the zookeepers have in store for the animals in their care. Just watching the Polar Bears, penguins, monkeys and more, get their treats can be a delight for your overworked body and spirit. The walking and exercise are good for you too. Too much food and drink can be the trigger to make some people feel cranky and "out of sorts". Drinking water and walking can help undo all the overeating and indulgences that took place the day before. If you can't do the exercise, then just sitting back and watching a favorite movie, with full permission to just enjoy it, can also revive the drooping spirits. A new hobby will keep your mind and hands occupied while you try to figure out just what you are supposed to do. An active mind doesn't have time to dwell on things that didn't go as planned and that's a good thing.
**Olivia is not a health care specialist, if you are feeling down or depressed, please check out your local health professionals.