Holiday Tips

1. Stay spiritually grounded. To stay spiritually healthy at Christmas, stay in touch with God or Buddha or the Universe – whatever grounds you. Take time to breathe deeply and say a prayer, or just sit on a park bench and reflect on this season of your life.

2. Get fresh air. The more active you are outside, the more energy you’ll have. Getting fresh air will oxygenate your brain and energize your body – so go tobogganing, sledding, skating, snowshoeing or walking. Staying healthy at Christmas means taking your kids for a hot chocolate or Slurpee after you throw snowballs or toss a Frisbee in the park.

3. Plan ahead. Do as much as you can in advance: buy Christmas gifts online, bake cookies or sauces and freeze them, write Christmas cards early. To reduce holiday stress, avoid doing everything at the last minute for your party or dinner.

4. Start new traditions. Get out of the Christmas rut by letting go of old holiday traditions and starting new ones. Instead of competing to give the “best” presents, show your love in other ways. Instead of stuffing yourself with turkey and mashed potatoes, eat slowly and lightly. Instead of fighting with your mom or brother, let go of old arguments and don’t even think about starting new ones.

5. Take time out. Treat yourself – and your mom or sister – to a day at the spa. Or make a spa afternoon or evening at home; give yourselves manicures, pedicures, massages and facials in preparation for big holiday events. Pampering yourself is a great way to reduce holiday stress.

6. Get enough sleep. To stay healthy at Christmas, make sure you’re getting the amount of sleep you need. Make time for naps or sleep-ins on the weekends. Be creative, and nap in the car or at the office if you need to.

7. Get enough light. If you struggle with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or the winter blues, make sure you’re getting enough light, even if it’s indoor. Consider buying a light box and or researching natural ways to lighten the winter blues. This will reduce your holiday stress and improve your mood.

8. Do what you love. To stay healthy at Christmas, remember what you love to do all year round and make time for it. Sing, dance, read, write, walk, paint – do whatever makes you feel emotionally healthy. Let go of guilty feelings and others’ expectations, and stay tuned to you.