Holiday Hacks - Overcome Holiday Stress

Holiday Hacks

in /by

The holidays can be wonderful and wacky and for many of our patients, a time of high stress.

How do you survive the holidays?  Here is a checklist of how to manage common holiday stress factors:

How to Survive the Holiday Party

  • Eat before you go, and be selective about what foods you eat at the party
  • Avoid alcohol at the party – this will make it easier to avoid sugar and other foods that throw you for a loop
  • Arrive early and leave early, before the sweets come out
  • If it is a party where you bring food, bring something that works for you, such as deviled eggs or chilled shrimp with cocktail sauce

How to Avoid Getting Sick

Germs are everywhere over the holidays and having a good strategy for preventing colds and flus can be a game changer. Know what to take and when to take it.

What to take:

  • Vitamin C
  • The Wellness Formula
  • Anything that works for you

When to take it:

  • Take as prevention, i.e. before you get on a plane
  • Start at the earliest hint of symptoms
  • Take often and in high doses

How to Avoid Crowds When Shopping

Whether it is gifts, groceries, or running errands, go at off hours:

  • Fewer people
  • Shorter lines
  • Easier parking

How to Avoid Traffic

Traffic, it’s a thing here in the Bay Area, and it is only getting worse:

  • Plan your drives around rush hour
  • Drive long distances at off times
  • Use driving apps, such as Waze
  • Leave early
  • Expect delays
  • Don’t over book your schedule

Mange Your Time, Manage Your Holiday Stress

Prioritize what makes you happy over the holidays. Is it decorating the tree? A latke party? Concentrate on the activities that make you happy and give yourself permission to say no to the rest.

Leslie Oldershaw, L.Ac.
Medical director
Acupuncturist East Bay
510-595-1175
Follow Me on Facebook