SURVIVING THE HOLIDAYS

The day after Thanksgiving often reminds people of just how quickly the year has gone by and how close we are to the holiday season. Starting with Black Friday, which is known for its wonderful sales, until January 1^st, it often seems as if we are living in pure chaos.

Our bodies are able to adapt to the extra demands placed on them during the holiday season and other periods of stress. However, it is important to eat right, drink adequate amounts of water, and exercise so that we do not over-stress our bodies which can lead to sickness, musculoskeletal complaints, and fatigue.

The following are ten simple suggestions to help you celebrate as well as stay healthy through January and beyond.

1. Watch the sweets. It is very easy to overindulge during the holiday season. Make a conscious effort to control your sugar intake and try to look for healthier dessert options. Desserts containing a high percentage of fruits are good options. If possible, bake your own desserts instead of buying those at the grocery store which often contain extra sugars. If baking is not your thing, make sure you buy from a high quality shop.
2. Eat what is in-season such as apples, pumpkins, and squash. Vegetables that are high in starch and fruits contain high levels of carbohydrates which keep you full longer and help reduce sugar cravings. When your diet contains high levels of these foods, you are less likely to overeat at holiday dinners.
3. Plan your days. It is always useful- especially during the holidays- to spend 5 minutes in the morning to plan and prioritize your day. When you have errands to run, consider traffic and go on weekday mornings, if possible. Another good option is to buy online which can actually keep your excessive holiday shopping minimized as you are less likely to pick up extra things.
4. Monitor your spending. One of the biggest sources of stress during the holidays is spending too much money. Plan your budget and stick to it.
5. Treat holiday shopping as an athletic event. Stay hydrated by drinking eight to ten 8-ounce glasses of water per day. Remember that coffee, tea, soft drinks, and alcohol are diuretics. Be sure to stretch before and after a long day of shopping. Wear shoes with plenty of cushioning to absorb the impact of heavy walking. Also, wear comfortable clothing including layers which can be added or removed.
6. Share responsibilities. Involve your family and friends with party-planning. They will appreciate that more than a stressed-out host. This can also turn into a bonding experience.
7. Keep your holiday expectations realistic. Everything may not be as perfect as you may have dreamt it to be. Your family members may get in an argument in the middle of dinner or you may not get the gift you were expecting. Just make the best out of the holidays and enjoy what there is.
8. Set aside time alone. Family gatherings can be very chaotic and emotional. There is no better way to de-stress than a couple minutes by yourself. If you start to feel overwhelmed, go for a walk around the block, breathe and recharge.
9. Give yourself something nice. A massage, a manicure/pedicure, or going to a movie are good options. The best way to be helpful to others is by first helping yourself.
10. When wrapping gifts, be mindful of your posture. Try to vary your positions. For example, try standing at a table or countertop for one package, sit on a bed for another, etc.. Do not wrap gifts while sitting on the floor which often is done with poor posture and can lead to low back pain. Always stretch before and after you wrap gifts.

Happy Holidays from Irving Park Chiropractic!