Holiday Survival Guide

Don't let this holiday season leave you feeling stressed and frazzled. Make this the first year that you enjoy the whole experience.  Gain control of your "to do's" with some simple tips that will help get you to every function on time with gourmet sides and gifts in tow.

Plan ahead. Make a gift list and a grocery list and determine whether you can consolidate trips at a one-stop super store. 

Get organized & delegate. Enlist the help of friends and family; just be sure to provide the store, color and size of items to prevent the added stress of returns. 

Adopt an attitude of gratitude. Don't lose sight of what the holidays are really about:  being thankful for our family, our friends and our health. 

Go electronic. Send e-cards rather than paper cards. It's not only better for the environment, it also saves you time and money. 

Drink plenty of water. Adequate water intake ensures that you are properly hydrated so energy levels stay up. 

Brush your teeth. It may help reduce the urge to snack on high sugar, energy-zapping foods like cookies and candy.

Smell the season. Good smells (think fresh pines and apple pie) stimulate the release of adrenaline, the energy hormone. 

Pay attention to pressure points. Practice natural stress relieving techniques without a visit to the acupuncturist by gently pulling your ears at the tops, sides, and lobes to help release tension in your neck and shoulders. Don’t forget your Reflexology!

Breathe deep. Set aside 5-10 minutes. Find a comfortable, quiet spot and lie flat on your back, palms open to the sky. Begin with a long exhale, followed by a deep inhale. Try to hold each for 3-5 seconds, focusing only on the sound of your breathing. 

Let the light in. The short, dark days can affect your circadian rhythms, leaving you feeling fatigued. Sunlight helps regulate those cycles and stimulates the production of feel-good serotonin. If you can't get outside, sit by a window. 

Nosh before you party. Before you go to a function, eat a salad or a bowl of fruit.  It will fill you up since it’s high in fiber.  Also. going too long between meals not only effects your mood, it may also lead to over-eating. A handful of nuts or a piece of fruit will help keep you calm, and keep you from overeating at your next meal. 

Stick to your routine. Don't give up the things that keep you stress-free throughout the year such as exercising or meeting friends for coffee. This helps remind you that everything is manageable. Remember that Pilates will keep you feeling stress free and mentally focused!

Laugh. It's the best (and cheapest) medicine. 

Happy Holidays to All!