ASCP Skin Deep

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2018

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38 november/december 2018 DON'T OVERSTUFF YOUR STOCKING It's easy to overdo it during the holidays, which can add to your stress and fatigue in countless ways. The easiest way to avoid this is to set limits for everything in advance, then stick to them. For example, if you make a budget for gifts before you shop, you'll never have to worry about overspending. Also put a cap on the number of holiday parties and functions you'll attend, because too much socializing not only drains your energy but also takes time away from your other tasks. Speaking of parties, set a rational limit on the amount of food you'll serve if you're doing the entertaining, because spending too much time cooking and cleaning up afterward leaves less time for enjoying the moment. And while everyone knows the dangers of drinking too much at holiday functions, eating too much comes with its own set of risks. When you stuff yourself, your digestive system has to work extra hard to keep up with all that consumption. That leads to lethargy, which can add to the fatigue you've already been feeling. Go easy on sweets and other unhealthy foods and stick to sensible portions no matter what you're eating. LET VISIONS OF SUGARPLUMS DANCE IN YOUR HEAD The hard work required to prepare for the holidays sometimes causes us to lose sight of the end result. For example, when you're struggling to push your fully loaded shopping cart around the grocery store, you're probably too exhausted to anticipate the wonderful, relaxing holiday meal that will result from all that eff ort. But holiday planning is one time when you do need to focus on the destination rather than the journey. Studies now show that positive thinking can have a tangible eff ect on your health, your stamina, and how well you function overall. By concentrating on the warmth and joy the holiday season brings instead of the struggle to reach that oasis, you can ensure that all your days will be merry and bright. Stay the Course Don't let a hectic holiday schedule disrupt the yearlong habits that keep you healthy, happy, and full of energy. These include: • Getting enough rest: Whether you're toiling over half a dozen recipes in the kitchen or relaxing with champagne at a Christmas party, don't let holiday tasks keep you from getting the 7–9 hours of sleep needed for total wellness. • Eating properly: Skipping meals or noshing on convenient but unhealthy snacks while you're on the go can leave you feeling drained, so be sure to maintain a proper eating schedule. • Drinking enough water: Being even mildly dehydrated can cause a host of health issues, including fatigue, so keep that water bottle close at hand whether you're wrapping, cooking, decorating, or running errands. • Giving yourself a break: Even 5 minutes of stillness, meditation, or casual walking can boost energy and alertness. Time might seem at a premium during the busy holiday season, but allow yourself a mini break from time to time to keep both your mind and body in optimal condition. expertadvice REPLENISH And while the physical exertion required for all that shopping and cooking and entertaining is enough to sap your energy on its own, the anxiety those duties cause makes things even worse. »

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