Like it or not, the holidays are upon us! The mad rush of cheerful chaos from Thanksgiving through the New Year where priorities become decorating the house, feasting with family, experiencing the joy of giving, or celebrating for 8 days or more. Whatever your feelings about the holiday season, for most of us this means our daily routines, diets, and activities will change drastically and may affect how our bodies feel. For a lot of people, the changes in lifestyle and additional stress lead to flare ups, new conditions, tight stressful muscles, headaches, etc…you get the idea. Maybe it was that second plate of turkey with gravy or taking on that extra overtime at work to afford the trip to Disneyland for your children. Regardless, our body responds to those lifestyle changes in different ways. What if there was something we could do to limit or avoid those flare ups or stressful aches and pains?

 There are some key factors that may contribute to a more pleasurable and pain-free holiday season and overall promote healthier, happier, and less stressful times. The first is to stay active. Don’t let those long car or plane rides and sitting around watching the football games deter you from getting up and getting your exercise. Not only does exercise help keep that holiday weight off, but it also decreases the effects of stress; among many other positive benefits. Secondly, stick with your routine. If you wake up at 6am everyday and are in bed by 10pm, then try to stick with that routine. The natural biological rhythm of our internal clock does not respond well to change. Also, if you hit the gym everyday at 4pm, then make that a priority if possible. Thirdly, limit overeating and consuming alcohol. We all love Grandma’s holiday cookies and those Thanksgiving leftovers, and we all dread seeing that one family member who’s only tolerable with a healthy dose of spiked egg nog. Some make eating a sport this time of year and see how much their stomachs can fit but realize there’s consequences for our actions and grabbing that third helping of pumpkin pie is going to hurt the next day. Go into your feasts with a plan to limit portion sizes. Eat till your full and don’t overindulge.

The last piece of advice for surviving the holiday season is to enjoy the season. Time flies by quickly, and this time of year is for the friends and family that matter most. It’s not about the gifts, or decorations, but the relationships with those we love. Take time to slow down and live in the moment. Make memories that you will cherish a lifetime and enjoy the Holiday Season.

Happy Holidays from everyone at Moore Chiropractic!!!