NewBridge, a non-profit 501(c)(3), is dedicated to helping people find balance in their lives by providing affordable and innovative behavioral health and education programs
Media Coverage

Neighbor News, Parsippany Life
Dec. 7, 2005

Tips for finding balance during the holiday season

As the holiday season sets in upon us, people face a whirlwind of extra duties such as baking, decorating, shopping, traveling and attending holiday celebrations. As festive as the season can be, the pressure to “get it all done” can take an emotional toll and diminish the joy of the season.

To help people cope during this busy time, NewBridge, a nonprofit provider of behavioral health and education programs and services, offers the following 50 tips for finding balance during the holidays.

  1. Close your eyes and take 10 deep breaths.
  2. Let someone in front of you when you have time.
  3. Write an old friend.
  4. Volunteer at a soup kitchen.
  5. Avoid malls on weekends.
  6. Forgive somebody.
  7. Have a cup of tea.
  8. Say something nice to somebody who doesn't expect it.
  9. Turn off the television.
  10. Say no if you're overwhelmed.
  11. Rake leaves.
  12. Don't feel obligated.
  13. Bring cookies and travel-sized hand lotions to a nursing home.
  14. Get a group together and go caroling.
  15. Attend a high school music concert.
  16. Turn off the TV.
  17. Eat wisely.
  18. Hug your children daily.
  19. Drive the back roads.
  20. Pay cash whenever possible.
  21. Read a book.
  22. Set realistic expectations.
  23. Be a channel for peace.
  24. Walk away when necessary.
  25. End burdensome traditions.
  26. Begin traditions that work for you now.
  27. Get help if you need it.
  28. Look in the newspaper for volunteer opportunities.
  29. Tell your pet how lucky you are to have him.
  30. Don't stand next to the buffet all night.
  31. Get rest.
  32. Say "I love you."
  33. Find reasons to laugh.
  34. Substitute crowds with intimate gatherings.
  35. Think daily about what's really important.
  36. Listen to relaxing music.
  37. Let others help you.
  38. Attend church or synagogue or another spiritual haven.
  39. Drink responsibly.
  40. Collect pinecones.
  41. Bake gifts.
  42. Feed the birds.
  43. Keep extra snacks on hand for drop-ins.
  44. Give yourself extra travel time.
  45. Sneak out if you're not having fun.
  46. Don't overdo.
  47. Get fresh air.
  48. Take vitamins.
  49. Walk away from gossip.
  50. Have fun.

If times become too difficult to handle, NewBridge can help. To speak with a mental health professional, call toll-free (888) 746-9333. For more information about NewBridge’s programs and services, visit www.newbridge.org.

NewBridge Services, Inc. is a non-profit community organization founded in 1963 that provides innovative mental health, substance abuse, housing, children's and senior services and education programs. Whether dealing with stress, grief, or substance abuse or in need of parenting, relationship or caregiving advice, NewBridge offers counseling programs, educational forums and life-enriching services to help people bring balance to their lives. For more information call 973-839-2520 or visit www.newbridge.org.
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