Janet Carr

Okay, you made it through one food-intensive holiday. One down and two
to go. Last month we discussed the need to strategically prepare for
the many culinary temptations the holidays often bring. Now we want to
address the topic of emotional issues such as stress.

No matter how you cut it, the holiday season heightens stress. From decorating the house, to purchasing gifts, time is often at a premium. Rushing here and there often causes fatigue which can set off a negative chain reaction. Fatigue intensifies stress, weakens the immune system and can lead to illness.

Remember the importance of balance. This applies to rest, exercise and food consumption. Perhaps the single exception is water. During the holidays especially, you want to drink plenty of water to ensure all-around health.

Make an early New Year’s resolution: remove the word ‘guilt’ from your vocabulary. If you eat a bit too much, or don’t make it to the gym in three weeks because of holiday business, don’t beat yourself up over it. The holiday season is just that ‘ a season. Before you know it, you will return to normal life, which contains normal levels of activity and food consumption. And speaking of resolutions, don’t resolve to immediately lose weight in the New Year; this often is a set up to fail.

Keep in mind, the holidays are meant to be a time of peace, joy, happiness and love. So count your many blessings and enjoy the time spent with family and friends.