By Greg Pascucci
The holidays are synonymous with celebrations, gatherings and good cheer. But, for many, the hustle and bustle of the season can be overwhelming. Tasks such as finding the perfect gift for a loved one and cleaning and decorating the house for visiting family members can quickly create holiday stress.
Here are a few tips for staying cheerful this holiday season:
Maintain Healthy Habits
With so many decadent holiday favorites, including eggnog and fruit cake, it can be easy to overindulge. However, experts suggest eating in moderation and not forgoing your regular workout schedule. Research also shows a healthy, balanced diet can lead to less mood fluctuation and more positive, upbeat attitudes.
At The Carlisle Naples, an active retirement community, Executive Chef Marlon Perez strikes the perfect balance between holiday treats and a balanced diet. He and his talented teams are known for their delicious, amazing desserts that are not on the naughty list. Plus, The Carlisle’s wealth of fitness classes and programs continues throughout the holidays enabling residents to burn off extra calories.
Give Back
The Journal of the Institute for Volunteering Research found volunteering has a direct impact on successful aging, helping to improve physical and mental health. And opportunities abound to give back during the holidays. Donating toys to underserved children, sending cards and words of encouragement to military personnel and participating in a food drive are just a few ways to spread holiday cheer while boosting your spirits.
The Carlisle Naples’ maintenance-free lifestyle enables residents to spend each day as they wish, and for many, that includes supporting local charities and organizations. Residents also enjoy volunteering within the award-winning community, serving in various capacities, such as being part of the hospitality committee or resident council.
Have an Attitude of Gratitude
Gratitude can increase optimism and lead to increased feelings of happiness and positivity. To improve your attitude of gratitude, try finding three things to be grateful for each day. Consider a gratitude journal or spending time in nature. The Carlisle’s picturesque setting is ideal for residents wishing to admire the beauty of Mother Nature. Whether enjoying a walk along the meandering trails or sitting on a bench to admire the many native birds and wildlife, there are numerous ways to cultivate thankfulness and a heart of gratitude.
Remember the Reason for the Season
While gift-giving is nice, the holidays are more about spending quality time with family and friends. It’s a time to celebrate and strengthen bonds. With day-to-day chores handled by the dedicated team at The Carlisle, residents can spend more time basking in the holiday spirit. The community’s “lock and leave” lifestyle also means residents can leave to visit family without worrying about the safety of their residence. This added peace of mind helps ensure a smooth, stress-free holiday.
Be with Others
Being with others can help keep the holiday blues at bay. Invite a friend to dinner or connect with loved ones virtually. Whatever your preference, social connections are vital to combat feelings of loneliness which are associated with depression and can negatively impact overall health.
Retirement communities such as The Carlisle often expand residents’ social circles. The Zest Director at The Carlisle works to connect residents with similar backgrounds, careers or shared interests. Additionally, a Newcomers Block Party, hosted for each new resident, is great for meeting new friends.
Start New Traditions
With families living even farther apart than ever before, it can be challenging to maintain holiday traditions. Experts suggest creating new traditions can provide excitement and put everyone in a festive mood. They recommend expanding something you already do and keeping it personal.
At The Carlisle Naples, residents and staff come together as one big extended family to create their own holiday traditions. Decking the tree is a favorite activity, with everyone coming together to enjoy seasonal treats while ushering in the official start of the holiday season. A holiday tour of lights through neighboring communities is also a cherished tradition at the community.
“The holidays are a special time of year, filled with togetherness and plenty of good cheer,” said Executive Director Bill Diamond. “Our calendar is filled with plenty of celebrations, entertainment and activities to truly capture the warmth and spirit of the season.”
Located at 6945 Carlisle Court in Naples, The Carlisle offers independent and assisted living lifestyles featuring spacious one-and two-bedroom residences, weekly housekeeping and flat linen services, basic cable TV, all utilities except telephone, and delicious dining with daily, chef-prepared specials. The community is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), an important distinction that provides residents with the assurance that the highest standards of quality care, services and safeguards are maintained. For more information about the community, please call 239-221-0017 or visit www.TheCarlisleNaples.com.
6945 Carlisle Court
Naples, FL
239-221-0017