Tis the season for lots of wonderful things like giving, friends and family, food, festivities and much more.  That holiday goodness also includes socializing, lack of sleep, extra work, unhealthy food and alcohol.  The holidays can be very taxing on your body, mind and your wallet.  Here are a few tips on keeping up with the holiday spirit!

• Engage in a morning energizing routine that does not involve caffeine.  To start the routine, think of something that you are grateful for.  Then, take a few deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth.  Continue with a few favorite exercises and stretches that energize you. There are also some great, short routines available online that you can follow if you are fresh out of ideas.
• When you feel as though you are getting overbooked and overcommitted, learn how to graciously decline additional invitations.  It is a skill and takes some practice, so do some additional research and practice to get better at this one!
• Try to focus on eating more protein, fruits and vegetables and avoid simple carbohydrates and sugary treats.  If you can fill up on healthy staples, you can avoid eating more of the foods that will drain your energy.  Try to minimize eating crackers, chips, dips, and limit sweets to taking a few little bites here and there.
• Drink plenty of water every day.  To calculate how much you need, divide your body weight by two.  That number is equivalent to the number of ounces you should drink each day plus extra to replenish from sweating.  For example, for a 150 lb. individual, 75 ounces of water would be an appropriate amount.  Keep a reusable water bottle with you, including when you are out shopping and spending time decorating, cleaning or cooking.
• Try to limit alcohol and pace yourself.  If you are partaking, make sure you are also drinking a lot of water.  If both of those fail, and you find yourself with holiday hangover, try some pickle juice the next morning or another drink with plenty of electrolytes.
• Be strict about maintaining a healthy amount of sleep for you and your children.  Sleep deprivation will only increase your stress and lower your productivity.  Getting that extra hour over night, or sneaking in a power nap will result in a high rate of energy return. 
• Keep up your fitness routine, including those all-important yoga classes!  Working out is often a source of energy, and sticking closely to your routine can help keep you stay balanced.
• Most importantly, when you start feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath and think about what is truly important to you – don’t sweat the insignificant stuff!

Until then, I wish you happy and healthy holidays with no regrets!

Submitted by Kristen Mory

Kristen Mory is a Broadwater Resident (39th St. S.) and the owner of Generations Yoga and Fitness (www.generationsyoga.com). Kristen Mory is a fitness instructor and owner of Generations Yoga and Fitness.