1. Prepare for the Season
Especially in Texas we really only have 2 seasons. You can even experience a little bit of both in one day. In December, thankfully, its cold and it stays cold. With that however comes colds, flu, pneumonia, upper respiratory infections. Battle these by boosting your immune system.
 
2. Keep Moving
It didn’t change. Exercise is still known as a stress reducer, an immunity booster, and an eggnog and cookies lifesaver!! Even just 10 minutes a day can make the difference. In this busy season make it a point to do something active every day.
 
3. Try not to confuse Dehydration and Hunger
Its usually a similar feeling in our gut and especially in colder months our body’s crave more food so we have calories to “burn” and stay warm. People commonly experience constipation during winter months for this same reason, lack of hydration. Stay on your routine of drinking water periodically throughout the day.
 
4. Plan Your Binge Days
Open your Calendar. Work Christmas Party, Friends Christmas Party, New Years. Those are your “cheat days”. Stick to it. Give away the leftovers. Before the party actually takes place give your body the healthy foods it craves so it has the nutrition its looking for early in the day. By evening your body is less likely to look for fuel and store those extra empty calories.
 
5. Slow Down
Life can become a whirlwind when it comes to activities, holiday shopping, visiting family, just to name a few. What you need to do is purposefully slow down, take your time and then feel good about it. You don’t have to rush everywhere you go. Find peace in the things that used to stress you out. Drive slower and be courteous on the roads.
 
6. Relax / De-Stress
What is something that you enjoy? How do you like to wind down?(TV does not count) Do you like to read, listen to music, play board games with the family…  Schedule yourself a massage. Go get your nails done. Whatever it is, plan some time for yourself.
 
7. Wash Your Hands
Every chance you get…  You may pay attention to how and where you cough, other people don’t. Moisturize your hands as well so your skin doesn’t crack or become irritated.
 
8. Practice Self Control
Surprisingly a lot of those treats do not taste as good as they look. Don’t keep eating just to be polite. And don’t overestimate the calories burned while shopping. If you’re going to be making yourself a resolution come New Years you might as well practice. No sense in making your goals harder on yourself.
 
9. Plan Your Travels
Make yourself snacks. Have a plan to stay hydrated and active. Stop to stretch and walk around while driving or on a flight. Boost immunity with supplementation, essential oils, healthy eating.
 
10. Watch your alcohol intake
Plan ahead as to how much you want to drink for a particular gathering. During that week plan on hydrating more than usual. Balance the alcohol and water intake. Remember to take into consideration the type of drink you consume. Beer, wine and whiskey are not created equally…