Holiday Stress- Busters

The holidays bring stress in all kinds of ways.
Some are physical, like wrestling boxes of decorations from out of the attic. Some are mental like trying remember all the people who need presents, what they got last year, and what you want to get them this year. Emotional stress comes from dealing with relatives, memories of past holidays and unfulfilled expectations. Metabolic stress comes from holiday cookies, eggnog and too much time on the couch.
What can we do to make sure that holiday stress doesn't turn into holiday illness, injury or disease?

1. Stretch- Even 5 minutes in the morning can help prevent knots, strain and spasms from ruining your holiday celebration. Remember to stretch slowly and don't bounce.
2. Breathe- If you are feeling tense and rushed, take a moment, stop what you are doing and just take 4-5 slow, deep breaths. The pause and intake of fresh oxygen to your system is good for you.
3. Drink- Water. Dehydration is just as easy in the wintertime as in the heat of summer. Keeping your body hydrated helps to ward off exhaustion and aids in weight control.
4. Take your vitamins-Stress can deplete your body of essential nutrients like B vitamins and Vitamin C. Exposure to germs can compromise your immune system, increasing your requirement for zinc.
5. Get adjusted.-Chiropractic adjustments help put your nerves and muscles at ease, which reduces stress in your body. The less stress that is pent-up in your body, the better you sleep and quicker you heal.