Wellness

5 WAYS TO STAY PRESENT THIS CHRISTMAS

“Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift of God, which is why we call it the present.” Staying present is to stop looking forward to the next thing, slow down and enjoy right now. 1. Savor the moments – disconnect to re-connect. Christmas is all about spending quality time with family and friends.

Our modern world makes it hard to be truly present, but

Christmas is a great time to practice. Disconnect from screens to reconnect with the people that really matter in your life. 2. Spend more time being than doing. Although connecting with others is great for our health, spending 10 minutes a day to pamper yourself or to be on your own to enjoy being rather than doing is also important. Scheduling 10 minutes for yourself every day will reduce the festive tensions, as well as give your system a much-needed break. 3. Get outside to experience the magic. Thousands of studies have been done on the benefits of being in touch with nature; from reducing depression and anxiety to lowering blood pressure. Go for long walks with the family, a friend, your dog or simply on your own. Soak up the beauty of nature and notice how much more calm you feel. 4. Practice daily gratitude. Studies have shown writing three things you are grateful for every day for 21 days straight, increased people’s happiness levels, decreased their stress load and even boosted their immune system. Leave a notepad by your bed. Write three different things every day for which you are grateful. Aim for 21 consistent days to see if you too can discover the happiness advantage! 5. Give more than you ever expect to receive. I’m not talking about presents and I’m definitely not talking about money. In my opinion, the most valuable thing anyone can ever give is their time.

Doing something for a friend, helping a stranger, volunteering, making a present, completing random acts of kindness or simply taking the time to genuinely thank someone are great opportunities to spread joy. It is the best gift you can give others because it’s contagious! Here’s to great choices and positive changes to help you live your best life! WELLNESS WINTER WONDER LAND THURSDAY JANUARY 19 10am-3pm, Village Park

Have you ever “wondered” what the Wellness team could do for you? Stop by the park and find out!

AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION’S WEAR RED DAY FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3 Together, we will wear red to show awareness for saving lives. Wear red and join us at the Village Square to walk indoors through GSV. Weather permitting, you can walk outside.