Surviving the Holidays

How to Have a Stress-Free Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time for family, festivities and fun. But for many people, the most cheerful of seasons is also the most stressful time of year. Between holiday travel, inclement weather, financial woes and disagreeable relatives, it’s easy to feel more overwhelmed than overjoyed.

For the millions of people who experience heightened stress levels during the holidays, the phrase “worried sick” is not just a saying. Your overall health can take a serious hit during this physically and emotionally taxing season, with mounting pressures manifesting themselves in a variety of ways including anxiety and depression, immune and digestive disorders and skin conditions such as psoriasis and shingles. With the holidays fast approaching, here are a few critical coping techniques to help you relieve stress and beat the holiday blues.

Keep it Real

Unrealistic expectations are a key culprit of holiday stress. All too often, we overexert ourselves trying to find the perfect gift, cook the perfect meal or plan the perfect party. Having realistic expectations of yourself and others will help you appreciate the holidays for what they are—a time to celebrate and enjoy the company of your loved ones.

Creating a master holiday to-do list and prioritizing in order of importance will keep you organized and feeling in control. Resist the urge to think that you can or should do everything yourself. Delegate responsibilities and enlist the help of your family members to ensure that you accomplish everything on your agenda. Getting others involved will not only relieve you of some of the burden of planning, but it will foster a sense of family togetherness and encourage everyone to get in the holiday spirit.

Stay Balanced

A healthy body is inextricably linked to a healthy mind. Instead of resorting to negative coping strategies like excessive drinking and overeating—which will only result in further stress and fatigue—keep your mood balanced with healthy habits and a sufficient amount of sleep. Exercise is one of the best ways to fight stress of any kind. Although we tend to slack off on working out during the holiday season, it’s important to fit in fitness. Regular exercise will give you the extra energy that the season requires, as well as combat holiday weight gain.

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and nuts will also boost energy levels and curb holiday cravings. Dietary supplements can help you fill in any gaps and work a full day’s worth of nutrients into your hectic holiday schedule. One wholesome option is Balance complete greens formula. Part of the CosMedix SKINutrition collection of holistic nutraceuticals, this detoxifying, energizing drink provides 44 fruit and vegetable extracts and 67 trace minerals.

Take Some Me Time

Remember to take some time for yourself during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season—it’s okay to be selfish every once and awhile. Set aside a few hours each day without any interruptions or one full day a week that is just for you. Whether treating yourself to a massage, taking a yoga class or curling up with a good book, use this time to relax, unwind and clear your mind of any stressful thoughts. Once you’ve de-stressed and regrouped, you can truly begin to take pleasure in all the joys that the season brings.

Healthy Holiday Diet Tips

Avoid stress-induced holiday weight gain with these simple ways to cut back and still feel satisfied.

• Don’t Skip Meals
  Depriving yourself of food all day to save calories will only lead to overeating later. Instead, get your metabolism going with a nutritious breakfast and follow with a light lunch.
• Trim Back on the Trimmings
  Saying no to gravy, sauces and butter is an easy and painless way to cut back. Your meal won’t suffer without these small yet fat-laden additions.
• Beware of Festive Drinks
  Alcoholic drinks and holiday favorites like eggnog are typically loaded with calories. Try buying light or diet versions of your favorite juices, mixers and drinks.
• Be the Life of the Party
  Instead of hanging around the buffet table all night, get out there and socialize. The idea is to take the focus off of the food and put it back on your friends and family.