Ah, the Christmas season. A relaxing time with your family, as you alternate between Monopoly games and watching movies on TV with plenty of popcorn. Nothing but you, your family and chestnuts roasting by an open fire.
Now, back to reality. For many families, December means the added stress of finding time to decorate and put up a Christmas tree, worrying about money needed buy presents, finding time to wrap what presents you can afford, then still trying to make it to your company's holiday party and your child's basketball game.
Meanwhile, day jobs and housekeeping don't come to a stop.
Studies have shown almost 70 percent of Americans feeling stressed as Christmas approaches. A survey by Think Finance revealed 45 percent of 1,000 respondents would prefer to skip Christmas altogether. That's unfortunate.
So what's the answer to keeping the season joyous and prevent the Grinch from stealing Christmas?
Doctors and other experts generally offer four pieces of advice: eat right, exercise, sleep and simplify.
The first three are good tips for healthy living any time.
Eating right means opting for a grilled chicken with fruit and vegetables rather than a crispy (meaning fried) chicken sandwich, fries and a Coke. On the subjects of drinks, doctors advise you to drink heavily - water, that is. Go easy on drinks with alcohol, caffeine and sugar.
Exercise, even some walking each day, also is important. And a new study out this week said no matter how much you exercise, sitting for excessively long periods of time is a risk factor for early death.
You also need to get at least seven hours of sleep a night; studies have shown it's tied to your overall health.
Finally, keep things simple, or at least as simple as possible, during the holidays. Prioritize, first setting aside time for your faith and your family. After that, realize you can't make it to every Christmas event, and you can't be everything to everyone.
Following these steps won't necessarily lead to a month of relaxation and roasting chestnuts, but it will, hopefully, lead to a more enjoyable Christmas.
News Tribune