Stress Less – Tips for a Healthy Holiday

‘Tis the season, making the list, checking it twice, some people are naughty, some are nice and most are caught up in the do more, see more, have more, go more, eat more, drink more and stress more mentality. Holidays can be hell if you let them. Here are some of my favorite survival tips to help you thrive and enjoy the holiday season.

STRESS – Less

Try making room for relaxation and cross some things off of your To Do list

Do you really need to decorate to the fullest extent possible or can you do with a more moderate, toned down holiday décor?

Simplify your gift giving; shop locally to support local merchants who are struggling in this economy. The experience can be less time consuming and more personal.

Do you want to live in a town where all of the shops are empty?

Shop online, buy gift cards or personalize items, which can make something ordinary, extraordinary.

Stuffed and Overindulged won’t make for a healthy holiday.

Pour smaller glasses of wine and other beverages and linger longer over them to avoid over drinking

Use a small plate and choose some lower calorie food to fill up on and limit the amount of high fat, high sugar indulgences

Choose to go to the parties where you will have the best time and don’t feel obligated to accept every invitation

If you get too many invitations, ask to push some off until after the holidays or the New Year. Let the good times roll into the New Year when post holiday blues may set in

Stress Less – Tips for a Healthy Holiday Takeaway:

Take Care of Yourself

Find time to exercise

Relax and meditate on a daily basis even if it’s only for 5 minutes

Laugh and enjoy your family and friends

Happy Holidays