December 2, 2004

’Tis the season… to be stressed out?

By Vivian I. Silva
Special to the Times

A recent study at the University of California-San Francisco study proves what many of us had suspected. This hot-off-the-press report “provides the first strong support for a link between psychological stress and aging on the cellular level.” Researchers sampled the blood from mothers of chronically ill children. Their intent was to look for signs of premature aging. Rather than waiting for additional confirmation or challenges regarding this study, let’s talk about how we can reduce stress during this holiday season.

What can we do? The following suggestions offer some options:

All I want for Christmas is a good night’s SLEEP!
People can improve their sleep patterns. Avoid caffeine in the afternoon and evening. Alcohol may disturb sleep as well. Exercising helps but not right before bedtime. Make sure your pillow and mattress are in good shape. Try to go to bed at the same time every night and remember to use earplugs if you are easily awakened by noises.

Nutritious food—oh my!
We know how difficult it is to pass up the candy canes, lollipops, or Aunt Mary’s homemade fudge. A balanced diet with lots of vegetables and fruits do help us maintain our stamina for wrapping those gifts.

Quiet moments to breathe
Some of us tend to hold our breath when we are stressed or annoyed. Escape to a private area for a quick stress reliever: breathe in and pause, counting to three. Breathe out. Pause for another count of three. You can do this for about a minute.

Offer your hand or arm to hold
Walking is a great way to reduce stress—even if for only 10 minutes. When you visit relatives, remember to offer your hand or arm for them to hold as you take a walk around the block or to the corner.

Can’t I do it all?
Give yourself permission to limit your activities. Is it that important to bake those 12 dozen cookies?
But I miss so much!

Holidays can be difficult to celebrate after losing a loved one. You can place a candle on the table honoring the deceased or break the tradition by going out to dinner.

’Tis the season to wish you Happy Holidays!

Vivian I. Silva, Gerontologist/MSW is the director of Geriatric Advisory Program at Almaden Valley Counseling Service. The service educates and advises adult children and elders on aging issues and provides individual and family consultation. For more information call (408) 975-2988 or e-mail vivsilva@aol.com.