Christmas
lunch idea
3
Real talk
Beating the festive
season blues
“
Christmas is a time of celebration. But it can also be a time
of loneliness, family conflict, and added financial pressures
of gifts, parties and catering – which can lead to feelings of
anxiety or depression. Around this time of year, I often see
spikes in pharmacy visits and medication use that people
turn to more and more.
As your pharmacists, we can provide support and help
you manage your mental and physical health. If you are
struggling at this time of year, know that you are not alone.
I often suggest trying these strategies to help cope with
the demands of the festive season.
GREEN BEAN,
TOMATO &
•
Exercise – physical activity is important all through
the year, but especially at Christmas when lots of
us slow down. Finding at least 30 minutes a day for
exercise or fun festive activities can have you feeling
good inside and out!
•
Food & drink – I know it’s easy to overindulge at
this time of year, however alcohol and food should
be consumed in moderation. Allow yourself the odd
treat, but remember to keep up a healthy diet of
fresh fruit, vegetables, and lots of water!
Did you get tasked with bringing a plate to family Christmas?
Dish up this delicious and nutritious summer salad that is
bursting with flavour, low in calories, and even colour
coordinated for Christmas. We think it will be such a hit,
you’ll be asked to bring it next year too!
•
Budget - with huge pressure to spend at Christmas,
it’s no wonder stress levels skyrocket! I find planning
and budgeting in advance helps our family stay on
track (ie. saving $10/week = $520 in a year). Other
ideas could include getting everyone to bring a dish
for Christmas lunch, try Secret Santa (with a set limit)
instead of individual gifts, and opt for homemade
presents from the heart.
•
Connection - feeling connected to loved ones is
so important following COVID-19, but especially
at Christmas when feelings of isolation often peak.
Make time to phone or Facetime family and friends
to check in on them at this time of year, or organise
catchups in person. It’s an instant mood booster for
both sides!
•
Handling stress – some stress can’t be avoided,
but knowing your triggers and acting on them
can put you in a better headspace to manage any
challenges. Strategies might include taking walks
to clear your head, avoiding certain situations or
people, taking ‘you’ time to relax, and speaking
openly. It’s also a good time to check in with your GP
or pharmacist for extra support with your feelings of
stress or anxiety.
cashew salad
Serves 8 | 155 calories per serve
INGREDIENTS:
700g green beans, trimmed and sliced into 3cm pieces
1 large head of broccoli, cut into small florets
500g cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
1 leek, chopped
100g cashews, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
METHOD:
1. Bring a large saucepan to the boil. Add beans and broccoli,
cooking for 3-5 minutes or until bright green. Drain and place in
cold water until they are cool. Remove from water and pat dry with
paper towel.
2. Add olive oil to frying pan and heat over medium heat. Add leeks
and tomatoes, cooking for 2-3 minutes or until soft.
This time of year can be difficult, and looking after your
mental health is just as important as your physical health.
For additional support or other approaches that may help
you, speak to your local pharmacist or GP. From all of us
at TerryWhite Chemmart, we wish you a safe and happy
festive season!
3. Place beans, broccoli, tomatoes, leeks and cashews in a serving
bowl. Toss with lemon juice, salt and pepper.
4. Enjoy as a side dish with your Christmas lunch.
Recipe adapted with permission from
Ann Kruimel
Pharmacist
TerryWhite Chemmart
Elizabeth Park, SA