American Council on Exercise Offers 10 Tips for Surviving th...( SAN DIEGO Oct. 4 /PRNewswire/ As ...),Health

SAN DIEGO, Oct. 4 /PRNewswire/ As the festive holiday season is approaching, many Americans find it stressful to keep up with often-unrealistic demands and expectations of family, friends and events. The solution to an enjoyable celebration is to relax and take good care of ourselves, which in turn will increase energy and reduce stress levels. To keep happy and safe this season, ACE offers 10 tips for surviving the holidays.

1. Take time for yourself. Although spending time with friends and family

is essential, it's also important to set aside at least five minutes

for yourself to relax. Try practicing deep breathing exercises when

you feel stressed out.

2. Don't set unrealistic exercise goals. Aim to exercise 30 minutes a day

instead of an hour. You'll be sure to get at least 30 minutes of

physical activity per day without feeling disappointed if you do not

complete an hour.

3. Enlist a friend or family member to exercise with you. Walking and

talking with a friend can be a great way to burn extra calories and

reduce your stress level.

4. Create new, more active traditions. Instead of throwing a dessert or

cocktail party, try snowshoeing or ice-skating as an alternate holiday

event. Play touch football or build a snowman.

5. Don't try to lose weight or stick to a restrictive diet this holiday

season. If you enjoy your favorite foods in small portions, you'll

feel more satisfied. Trying to stay away from certain foods may leave

you feeling deprived, which may cause you to eat more than you

planned.

6. Drink plenty of water. Although the cold weather may make you less

inclined to grab a glass of water, it is just as important in the

winter as it is during the summer. Water helps counter the dehydrating

effects of travel or drinking alcoholic beverage
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