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So the holiday season is upon us, and it's already begun -- you're eating too much, not exercising enough, and starting to get those winter blues.  I know, I know – you said that you were absolutely not going to feel this way this year. But don’t worry; this holiday season can still be different for you - no five pound weight gain, holiday blues, or stressed-induced illnesses for you!  

Here’s how. Start by making a plan for each of the following areas: nutrition, exercise, and stress management. Doing so will make it easier for you to face those holiday cookies at work, your children's classroom parties, your in-laws and all the other stresses related to holidays!  

I will help you start your plan.

(1)  First up, nutrition. Be sure to eat breakfast every day and get that metabolism going! It will provide you with the fuel you need to get through the day. Are you spending most evenings at a holiday gathering?  Before you go, have a healthy snack such as a handful of almonds or an apple. This will help in curbing your urge to fill up on creamy dips and desserts at the holiday buffet. If you must eat out, remember to create a colorful plate of food (more color usually equals more nutrients). Think red pepper slices, sweet potatoes, oranges and cranberries. Don’t be afraid to fill your plate – it’s better than grazing all night!

(2)  Now that we’ve covered food, on to exercise. Although it might be easier to just order all your gifts online, try to venture out and go shopping (or at least window shopping). Walking around a shopping mall is a great way to get a lot of steps in!  Remember, we’re aiming for 10,000 steps per day. Taking 10 minutes several times a day is a great way to keep moving and feel good.  If you're traveling over the holidays, keep in mind that airports and train stations are all great places to pick up steps easily.  

(3)  Managing stress.  It goes without saying that the holidays can be very stressful.  And stress can easily take the cheer out of us. Fortunately, you have your breath with you 24/7.  It's free, easy and always accessible.  Don't forget to use it whenever you feel your frustration and anxiety levels start to rise. Stop, take a deep breath through your nose then exhale deeply.  Try to remember to do this several times a day, and certainly when dealing with long lines at toy stores, pesky relatives and when faced with yet another round of holiday cookies.

(4)  And, lastly, don’t forget to take a moment to feel grateful for all you have. Gratitude can easily lift your mood and make all those holiday stresses seem, well, not quite so stressful.

Dr. Elizabeth Ricanati is the mother of three children and founding medical director of The Cleveland Clinic's LifeStyle 180 program.  She is a regular columnist for ShareWIK.com 

More Dr. Elizabeth Ricanati articles, click here. 

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