Why not give yourself a gift this holiday season and resolve to take care of yourself. What I mean is to take care of your own needs as the craziness sets in. Though you are focused on everyone else you can’t really take care of others if you neglect yourself and end up stressed, irritable and resentful. Now this advice is for all of us who are just doing the usual things to get ready for the holidays, but it doubly applies if you are a caretaker of someone who is elderly or disabled or perhaps a child with special needs.

What do you do that gives you a smile? What bright spots in your day give you a respite even if only for a few minutes? It doesn’t have to take a lot of time or money. Here are a few suggestions, but you must create your own list for this to really make a difference.
Doing a crossword or sudoku puzzle
Exercise ~ even a brief walk or a series of stretches
Reading the comics or anything humorous.
Read a chapter of your favorite book
Meditation, prayer or reading something inspirational
Even just a few moments of silence
Your favorite music ~ in the car, at work or while you’re doing chores
A special taste treat ~ whether fresh fruit or lunch with a friend.
Chocolate works well I’m told!