myCSUSM
December Focuses on Reflection
The holiday season is here and while this time of year suggests feelings of joy and cheer, it can also bring stress and difficult emotions. While the compounding effects of the COVID-19 may have exacerbated these feelings, there are ways to ease through the season and make the most of our more traditional festivities. This month we focus on reflecting the challenges of this past year and looking forward to new opportunities in the future, starting with the following suggestions.
- Accept imperfection. Can good be good enough? Take time to reflect on what has gone well and what you might like to do differently next year. Try not to get stuck into taking a negative view of your year. If there are things that did not go well, focus on how you can handle this differently in the New Year.
- Don't lose sight of what really counts. With long lines, traffic and added COVID precautions, this time of year is certain to be full of hustle and bustle. If feeling overwhelmed, as yourself where does this fit in the grand scheme of things? Is there a way to make this experience pleasant or memorable?
- Respond with kindness. We can't change how other respond during stress, but we can change how we respond. Practice compassion for other perspectives and if you can, extend an act of kindness to those who may need it most.
- Rethink your resolutions. Resolutions don't have to be set up for failure. Start small and be kind to yourself.
Events & Resources
CSU's Coast to Coast Wellness Challenge
Wouldn't it be nice to take a six-week journey of self-care? Whether you're adventuring solo or with a team, this virtual trip will take you across the U.S., stopping at some of America's most popular attractions as you record healthy behaviors.
Register for the challenge or for more information and to register visit the Coast to Coast website.
Creating Meaningful Holidays During COVID
This year is unprecedented and now this holiday season is unlike any other. There have been so many changes, cancellations, and losses to grieve in the midst of this pandemic - you might find yourself with a mixture of emotions. This session will include ways to manage those feelings and creative tips for celebrating holidays.
WHEN: Tuesday, December 8 from 1:00-2:00 p.m.
Survival Kit for the New Normal
This webinar will equip you with practical tips for healthy eating and finding ways to stay active in this new virtual, stay-at-home norm. Topics include hydration, healthy snack choices, meal preparation, portion control, movement and maintaining consistency. Quarantine 15 will not stand a chance! *Open to the public, but limited to 500 attendees.
WHEN: Thursday, December 10 from 11:00-12:00 p.m. or 1:00-2:00 p.m.
ENROLL: Register for 11:00 a.m. or register for 1:00 p.m.
Parenting in a Pandemic: Support Group
Challenges for parents abound in this COVID-19 world. Parents have been thrust into uncharted waters as they try to not only remain valued employees but help navigate their children's education and social and emotional well-being. This session will focus on helping parents more successfully navigate all that is before them.
WHEN: Monday, December 14 from 3:00-4:00 p.m.
Work/Life Balance in an Unbalanced World
Never have the lines between work and life been more blurred. And it's never been more challenging to try to maintain social connections and physical and emotional well-being. This session highlights common stresses, reactions and successful coping strategies.
WHEN: Monday, December 14 from 10:00-11:00 a.m.
Additional resources:
- United HealthCare Podcast of the Month: Mental Health and Emotional Well-Being
- Loneliness and the Holidays
- Health Tip: Financial Well-Being
- Scholarshare: Limited Offer for New Accounts
- CalPERS and CalHR: Health for the Holidays