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Attempting to avoid holiday treats is just asking for a binge — not to mention the inevitable post-indulgence guilt, says B.C. registered dietitian Patricia Chuey. Instead, try what she calls the pleasure principle: If you’re going to indulge, go for the good stuff. “Have gourmet chocolate rather than waxy dollar-store Santas. Or choose a wine you really like and savour it,” she says. Besides, it’s really not hard to find healthy seasonal eats: Everyone’s serving up turkey (low-fat, high-quality protein), mandarins and clementines (vitamin C and fibre), and squash (fibre and antioxidants).
Getty ImagesGetting enough sleep at this time of year isn’t easy, but it’s worth the extra effort: Skimp on slumber and you’re guaranteed to be more stressed, sick, and plump — lack of sleep throws off the hormones that control appetite. For better rest, skip the cookies and spiked cider; a full stomach and alcohol can inhibit sleep. Work winding-down time into your bedtime routine, and if your holidays are far-flung, ask your doctor about taking melatonin to beat jet lag.
MasterfileIt's the height of cold and flu season, which means all those party guests congregating in the kitchen probably brought along their germs. Give yourself the best chance of fighting bugs with adequate sleep and healthy eating, says Diane Middagh, a family nurse practitioner at BC Women’s Hospital and Health Centre in Vancouver. She also advises getting the flu shot and washing your hands or using hand sanitizer frequently (especially before raiding the appetizer tray and after shaking lots of hands). Feel a sore throat coming on, post-party? Gargle for five seconds with warm salt water: “The flu virus likes to live in the back of the throat and nose, and gargling can soothe it.”
MasterfileDon't be discouraged if you’re finding it hard to go for hour-long jogs or even a quick class at the gym right now. Just keep in mind a little can go a long way. A recent study in the Lancet found that even 15 minutes of moderate activity every day ups life expectancy. Don’t stress about skipping workouts. Instead, “think movement and activity,” says Kathryn Nobrega-Porter, a naturopathic doctor in Toronto. Do some squats at your cubicle, go for a walk at lunch and plan active social outings. (They don’t know it yet, but New Year’s Day yoga with our college buds is on.)
MasterfileIt's important to have a plan, but cut yourself some slack, says Alexandra Ross, owner of the Organizing Wizard in Vancouver. “Aim for happiness, not perfection.” Get zen with this acupressure trick from Joseph Starr, managing director of the Canadian College of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine in Bedford, Nova Scotia.
1. Breathe deeply, in through your nose, out through your mouth.
2. Relax your arms at your sides.
3. Squeeze the skin between the thumb and forefinger of one hand with the thumb and forefinger of the other. Hold for 30 seconds and continue breathing deeply. “It’s the master point of the head and face,” says Starr. “It soothes the mind.”
Sure, this time of year is all happiness and good cheer. If only there weren’t so many opportunities for stress, that is. (Exhibit A: the guy right ahead of you in line who wants to price-check everything. Exhibit B: dear Aunt Marg, who must have invented the backhanded compliment.) Be prepared with a secret weapon against stress. Load your cellphone with a photo that makes you feel good, like a shot of you finishing your first 10K or holding your newborn. Just a glance can put you in a better head space: “It’s amazing how quickly feel-good chemicals release,” says naturopathic doctor Kathryn Nobrega-Porter.
MasterfileHere's an easy fix to being overscheduled: Take back control of your calendar by enlisting the power
of no. “What is the worst thing that can happen? Decline politely and schedule something for January,” says Alexandra Ross, owner of the Organizing Wizard in Vancouver.
Easier said than done? Just try it. And while you’re at it, as soon as you read this, sit down with your calendar and pencil in your shopping, wrapping and tidying up. Finally, once you have two things on any day, don’t do any more. And keep one day each week totally free to treat yourself. Hello, nap time!
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