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HELLO ST' JOHN'S!
SEASON'S GREETINGS !
Fall
brings a certain realization that the calendar year is coming to an end very soon. The yellow, golden colors of fall and the
harvest reaps, replace the bountiful summer fruits and vegetables. Soon the fallen leaves will be replaced by the snow - a
joy to some and a concern for others. Hush!! We still have a lot to be thankful for, as we embrace the fall and winter seasons.
We all have our seasonal preferences, but one thing is sure we do not need to let the seasonal changes affect some of the
healthy choices we made during the spring and summer months, such as eating more fruits and vegetables, drinking more water
if it is not restricted, eating smaller portions and of course exercising.
With daylight saving time it gets dark earlier,
some people may feel a little blue/sad or depress or lonely at this time. Some may have problems sleeping, maintaining healthy
eating habits and exercising.
Here are some tips and suggestions to get you through this period.
If you can get up an hour earlier, please do so.( You will be surprised as to how much more you can accomplish. It also
gives you one more hr of daylight).
Schedule appointments earlier during the day
Make a to do list,
whether it is for grocery, hairdresser, shoe repair shop, dry cleaning. (Keep it with you all the time. This way you are always
prepared).
Make sure you are prepared for the weather and for exercise. (Your sneakers are not
too worn, and are skid proof, and your winter boots have good grips).
Check out gyms and health clubs for free passes
or reduced fees.
Check your TV guide for home exercises and follow them to your own pace.
Get a workout partner
and keep each other motivated.
If you can, walk instead of driving to near places.
If you have problems
sleeping avoid coffee or anything with caffeine after lunchtime.
Do not exercise at least 3 hrs before bedtime.
Avoid alcoholic drink 6 hrs prior to bedtime.
Always engage in activities that are relaxing before bedtime.
Go
for quiet, cool dark and peaceful bedroom
Do not go to bed hungry or too full.
Holiday/party eating.
Limit the variety - circle first, then make your choice - small portions only. (Remember to eat before go to the party)
Drink plenty water.
Eat slowly - it takes about 20 minutes for the brain and the G.I tract (gastrointestinal tract)
to signal each other to turn off the hunger pangs).
For those who are feeling a little blue, apart from
exercising and practicing good nutrition, ensure 7 to 8 hrs of sleep a night.
Learn to so "no" if you think
you are being asked to do too much.
Explain your feelings to a friend or family.(Strong social connection is important
over this season).
Do not blame self for not being up to par.
Try to be with other people which is better than being
alone.
Participate in activities that make you feel better. - help in church activities, senior centers, etc
Set
priority.
Do not set difficult goals.
Do not expect too much from yourself.
Try not to make major decisions
without discussing with others.
Do not accept negative thinking. (It is part of the depression and usually goes away
once you are feeling better).
Get counseling - speak with your doctor, priest, etc.
MAY GOD WHO CARES
ABOUT US AND GUIDES US WITH HIS LOVE, BRING YOU CHRISTMAS BLESSINGS , PEACE , AND JOY.
MAY THE NEW YEAR BE FILLED WITH
HOPE, HEALTH AND PROSPERITY.
GOOD BLESS
Cynthia, Edith, Eutrice, Sybil
and Monica.
Healthcare Ministry
December 12th, 2011.
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