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Simple Holiday Stress Busters

The holidays can upset your routine, making it easy to fall into bad habits that contribute to a higher stress level. But you can prevent a pre-holiday meltdown with a few simple tips.


DREAM THE STRESS AWAY
 

Shopping, cooking and attending holiday parties can cut into your normal schedule. But it is still important that you maintain a healthy sleep pattern. Otherwise, lack of sleep can make you cranky and affect your ability to deal with stress.

Instead of shopping until late at night, use your remaining time off for weekday errands. Get up at your usual time, and hit the stores early. Lines at the checkout will be shorter, and you’ll get more done in the same amount of time.  You can also do more online shopping to save time and money.


EAT FOR ENERGY
 

The holiday season is filled with tempting treats. But overindulging can slash your energy level. Smart eating, however, can keep you balanced to face the season’s increased demands.

  • Eat before you go. Have a modest, healthy meal before you leave the house. If you are already full when you arrive, you’ll be less tempted to eat fattening treats that will weigh you down emotionally as well as physically.
  • Bring healthy options to the potluck. Prepare a tasty dish that is low in calories and fat. A tray of crudités with low-fat dip can be a welcome break from rich holiday fare.
  • Practice moderation. Healthy living doesn’t mean that you can’t go near the dessert tray. Either take smaller portions, or simply taste rich desserts. You’ll feel better about yourself later instead of feeling bloated.
  • Watch the alcohol. It’s one of the easiest ways to cut calories. A gin and tonic has about 180 calories, while a Long Island iced tea has a whopping 789! Alcohol also affects your sleep, leaving you fatigued the next day.
     

KEEP MOVING
 

Exercising during the holiday season is especially important, burning off extra holiday calories, working off the holiday blues and combating stress.

Add some exercise to your holiday routine. For example, park your car at the back of the lot. The walk will also clear your head before you face the holiday crowds.


PLAN SOME "ME TIME"
 

Several weeks of fun and activity can be too much of a good thing, so be sure to schedule some time for yourself.

Setting aside 20 minutes to enjoy yourself can make all the difference. Take a bath, read a magazine, or go for a walk around the block. This brief escape can rejuvenate you and make for a more pleasant season.

 

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