The Balance of Power During the Holidays
~By Dennis Buckley, Doctor of Chiropractic
During the holiday season, it is easy to get “out of balance”. The demands that are placed on us can be enormous. At any time of the year, part of a healthy lifestyle is attaining balance -- physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. So, to get the most out of the holiday season, remember to invest time and energy in your own health and you will find more time and energy than you thought you had. That is a very special gift.
One area that seems to get out of control during the holidays is eating. With all the delicacies available, it is absolute torture to deny yourself. However, with proper planning and a little discipline, a happy medium can be achieved. With all the food that will ultimately be placed in front of you, limit your portions. This will leave room for that piece of pie or pastry. Limit the starchy foods and increase vegetables. Eating small meals throughout the day will also curb your appetite, so when the “meal” arrives, you won’t be inclined to eat everything.
Exercise is probably the most important activity during the holidays and is the one that is most easily dismissed or missed altogether. Planning time to exercise during your hectic schedule will actually allow yourself more time and give yourself more energy to meet the demands. It is too easy to delay your exercises until your “New Years Resolution”. We know how that works out. So, make exercise a priority and it will allow you to have enough energy to fulfill all your holiday commitments.
Rest can be your best friend to ward off the effects of the holidays. During sleep, your body repairs and rejuvenates. Staying up late and getting up early, while not having deep sleep, is a recipe for illness. Proper diet and regular exercise will help you to sleep properly. The rest will repair you, and your body will better be able to withstand the demands you will place upon it.
Controlling and limiting your alcohol consumption, planning your activities, dressing properly and knowing your limits all can help you to withstand the stress the holidays can bring. Emotionally, this is a time to be with friends and loved ones. It is not a time to hold grudges. What are we trying to accomplish here? To be right -- or kind? It is a time to connect, not disconnect. Spiritually, we need to take this time to give thanks for all the blessings that have been bestowed upon us. Recognize your higher purpose and honor the true spirit of the holidays. Mentally, it is too easy to get lazy this time of year, so take some time and start investing in next year. Start by reviewing the past year and creating a plan for the next year. We are all like software programs, and I hope next year’s version of you is new and improved.
Also, the one area that is most easily ignored is the functioning of your nervous system and body’s energy. Maintaining this essential energy conduit controls and coordinates all the functions of your body. To thrive during this wonderful time requires that all areas be addressed. With chiropractic and acupuncture care, you can ensure your energy supply will be maximized and you can help prevent the stress and strain of this time from overwhelming you.
