SURVIVING THE HOLIDAYS

Yes, it's that time of year again. Enjoying family traditions. Lots of social events. Hustle and bustle. Here are some tips to help you survive the holidays without weight gain and with pleasure.

• Rework traditional recipes to make them more healthful
• Get 30 to 60 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week
• Sleep at least 7 hours each night
• Use relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, progressive relaxation, meditation, or yoga to manage stress
• Know when to say "No"
• Allow others to help with holiday preparations
• Remember, the holidays are not about perfection. Rather, they are about spending joyful time with loved ones and appreciating the bounty we have in our lives.

Here are some wonderful links that provide some great suggestions that add to and expound on the above tips:

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/living/2016551800_planaheadholiday23.html

http://my.clevelandclinic.org/heart/prevention/nutrition/holidayeating12_01.aspx

http://blogs.webmd.com/pamela-peeke-md/2011/11/surviving-and-thriving-during-the-holidays.html

http://www.epicurious.com/articlesguides/healthy/news/holidayhealthyeatingtips

http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes_menus/collections/thanksgiving_collection_1

HAVE A WONDERFUL THANKSGIVING!!!