5 Ways to Stress Less During the Holidays

The holiday season brings plenty of joy, but it can also be a bit crazy-making. A hectic holiday schedule that's packed with parties, family gatherings, and last-minute shopping can easily become a recipe for stress that can also interfere with your health and your weight loss. It's important to take measures to keep stress to a minimum whenever possible — especially during the holidays. Sticking with your healthy South Beach Diet eating and exercise plan is a great start, but here are some other strategic tips to minimize stress and maintain your holiday cheer this season.

Don't skip meals or snacks.

No matter how busy you get this holiday season, never skip your healthy meals or snacks. Eating regularly stabilizes your blood sugar and keeps you energized. In addition, fortifying yourself with healthy South Beach Diet–friendly meals and protein- and fiber-rich midmorning and midafternoon snacks will keep you from mindlessly eating as you rush about. Be sure to keep a healthy snack, such as a South Beach Diet meal or snack bar, stashed in your bag to nibble on in case you hit a slump during your holiday shopping trips.

Stay active.

When you exercise, your brain releases multiple mood-enhancing chemicals that can help relieve the effects of stress. Aim for at least 20 minutes of aerobic or core-strengthening exercise most days of the week. If you don't have time to go to the gym, fit fitness in whenever you can. Get up a half hour earlier and do an at-home exercise routine or devote part of your lunch break to taking a power walk. Why not get a few co-workers to join you!

Get enough sleep.

When you're well rested, it is easier to stay in control of your emotions and cope with stressful situations. Dr. Arthur Agatston, author of The South Beach Diet Wake-Up Call, recommends that adults get a minimum of 8 hours of sleep each night. He also emphasizes the importance of quality sleep, so make sure your bed and bedroom are comfortable and conducive to a full night's rest. Eliminate any distractions, turn off the TV, shut down your computer and smartphone, and if necessary, set a bedtime alarm to alert you when it's time to turn in.

Practice relaxation or meditation.

Spend a dedicated amount of time each day doing some stretching, yoga poses, deep breathing exercises, or simply taking some time out to listen to soothing music, read a book, or take a relaxing bath. This should help you wind down and collect your thoughts while promoting an overall sense of well-being. A little time to yourself may be all you need to recharge your batteries and tackle any remaining your holiday errands.

Manage your to-do list.

Chances are you can't make every party, enjoy every holiday activity, or visit with every relative this holiday season, so decide what your priorities will be and graciously decline everything else. If something unexpected comes up, make time for it by eliminating another engagement in your agenda. Avoid last-minute scrambling by streamlining your holiday shopping. Plan ahead, create a budget, make a shopping list, and research your purchases in advance. Shop online when possible. Prep and bake whatever you can for holiday meals in advance. Line up some helpers for gift-wrapping, meal contributions, party prep, and clean-up.