Jingle bells , Jingle bells yes it’s that time of the year again. But wait where’s the snow? Ok it is unseasonably warm out there. Flexibility is the name of the game. So , Instead of ice hockey on Christmas day which is one of our traditions, the Villeneuve’s maybe playing street hockey.

What are other tips to help you get through the season?

To begin with try not to take things too seriously & enjoy, if you are flexible things will all work out. Stress is the perception of a dangerous and threatening outcome of a situation or event. For example many people find it nerve wracking to get all that holiday shopping done. You can be flexible and rethink what you give as gifts for the holidays. This year a few of my friends and I are going to give our kids, parent and kids cooking workshops once a month. This is all arranged over the internet and I don’t have to step into a mall to tick this one off my list. So get your creative thinking caps on and we’ll also share some more ideas. p.s. if any of you know my kids be sure and keep this one a secret! Another gift idea is you could always  regift one of these finds.. this sweater I’m sure has visited a few people.

The holiday is hectic and chaotic, but you can learn to thrive under pressure. More stress busting tips include:

1. Drink more OJ

Researchers at the University of Alabama found that vitamin C nearly stopped the secretion of stress hormones in animal studies. Two 8-ounce glasses of orange juice daily gives you the vitamin C you need.

2. Sleep

Ensure you are looking your best & feeling your best by getting at least 8 hours of sleep and try indulging in a cozy holiday nap on days where you have parties to go to!

3. Take Fido for a walk and if you don’t have one borrow one!

 According to research at the State University of New York at Buffalo, being around a pet provides more stress relief than being around a two-legged companion.

4. Take a Breathe

 Enjoy a herbal tea like chamomile which will help calm jittery nerves

5. Listen to Some Tunes

 Put that headset on , close your eyes for just 5 minutes and you’ll see how recharged you can be!

6. Hit the Gym! 

 Blast that stress out by having a vigorous workout. Not only will it reduce those anxiety causing hormones but it will help you stay trim with the extra holiday foods

7. Bring Food

 When trying to eat well, tell your host that you’d like to bring a dish to the holiday festivities. That way you’ll be assured that there is a choice that is one that works with how you eat and can enjoy smaller “ tastes” of what else is there.

8. Ask for Help

Get the kids wrapping gifts, making simple holiday treats and switch your holiday meals to potluck OR simply order one of those X mas meals from a hotel or restaurant so you can focus more on the good stuff!

9. Skip The Coffee and Switch To Green Tea

 Coffee may help you buzz through your endless list of to do’s but studies show that it can amplify stress by pumping out too much adrenaline. Switch to green tea which has antioxidants that we can all use and gives you a boost but also reduce cortisol the stress hormone that causes you to crave comfort food.

10. Don’t Forget Breakfast & Take Snacks With You!

 By missing breakfast you’re body will just try and make up the calories later. Try a warm whole grain cereal like steel cut oats with a few tablespoons of chia seeds that are rich in w-3 fatty acids to keep you sharpe!. Other good snacks are rich in protein & fiber and are less than 100 calories. Other good choices are enerjiVe ™ quinoa snack crisps, roasted edamame or a handful of almonds.

11. Laughter

Try reading the 23 Truths about adults ( link). I like the one about ..Map Quest really needs to start their directions on # 5. I’m pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood. Thanks gennevive from www.lucusnault.com  for sharing these! .

12. Knitting

Your bonus tip is that if you use smoking as a stress buster, turn over a new leaf l by turning to knitting! Knitting works great for those who are late night munchers, yes even you fellas out there!

Our revivelife Holiday Health Quiz

• Eating foods that contain “ healthy fat” can reduce the risk of a holiday hangover?
• People who run on adrenaline can be more prone to colds & flus when they relax during the holidays?
• Eating turkey can make us feel like snoozing?

Answer: You guessed it! All True
 Happy Holiday!  From The Revivelife Team!