I always feel like Thanksgiving marks the day the insanity and chaos starts. Why is that? In my opinion we bring it on ourselves.
Here are 10 Ways to Help You Survive the Holidays —
1. Do not lose track of the true meanings of the holidays. To me it’s about being with family and love ones and celebrating just that.
2. Do something that benefits individuals that do not have a family. You can look up your local Food Pantry, Lions Club, Rotary Club, a local nursing home. Adopt a family that is not able to buy any gifts. This will teach your children about giving and gratitude.
3. Do not compare yourself to other family members or neighbors when it comes to gift giving or decorating your home. Did you know gift giving and decorating the home was never the real reasons for the Holidays?
4. When it comes to wrapping gifts..keep it simple. Use gift bags instead of wrapping paper. It is easier and they can be re-cycled the following year.
5. Do not burn the candle. Get 7-8 hours sleep every night. Loss of sleep suppresses the immune system, leaving you open to getting a cold/flu easier. Lack of sleep causes: unwanted weight gain, loss of emotional well-being and patience.
6. If you have a party at night, do not starve yourself throughout the day. Eat regular meals and snacks, that way you do not go to a party hungry.
7. Eat a small amount of appetizers, or skip them. Often times we fill up on these and over stuff ourselves at the meal.
8. Fill your plate with protein first, fruit second and vegetables third. Then add one food item that you normally do not eat. Do not go back for seconds. Have a small helping of dessert.
9. Limit your intake of alcohol and never drink on an empty stomach. Drink responsibly.
10. Make “you” time each day…exercise, practice relaxation, take a Yoga class, have a message, read a book. Take an hour and just be!
I would love to hear any additional ideas that you have on this topic. Your thoughts and comments are appreciated.
I want to wish everyone a joyful holiday season and a happy and healthy New Year.
Be Healthy for a Lifetime,
Linda DeFever, CPT
{Image courtesy of: Freedigitalphotos.net}
About Linda DeFever