We wish you a healthy Christmas - Karen Hourtovenko

As Christmas comes again, it is so important to keep things in perspective and remember what this special holiday is really about.

Christmas has become so stressful to many, downright painful for some, lonely for others, and for many, has lost the real meaning.

It is not who can get the biggest present or cook the largest turkey or decorate the most (I am guilty of overdoing it in the decorating department, but I do love it), but making positive memories for children and bringing family members closer.

So please take time to sit this season and be thankful for all the good in your life and not focus on the bad. What we believe in life, we achieve.

Loving those around you without condition is the greatest gift you can give another. Loving yourself unconditionally is the greatest gift you can give yourself. Now, let’s focus on a

commitment to go back to the basics of this Christmas.

Ten healthy ways to get through Christmas:

1. Smile. Make a commitment to smile every day over the holidays, even if you don’t feel like it. You will be surprised how you will bring happy people close to you.

2. Volunteer. We are all busy, yes. We all have time, and how we use it is our choice. Giving time is the greatest gift we can give another.

3. If you are unable to buy a gift, make one. For example, make a coupon for one night of babysitting, cooking a meal, grocery shopping for an elderly person or shovelling for a neighbour.

4. Take time to phone those who you love. Skyping is acceptable, but please no texting “Merry Christmas.”

5. Sending cards is old fashioned, but let me tell you, they bring a smile to peoples’ faces, especially children (my kids love to get mail addressed to them).

6. Gift cards are always loved, and for those who has everything, coffee shop cards keep on giving.

7. Hug your kids — yes, even if they are taller than you. We all need love and attention. Parents are given that responsibility, no matter how old the kids get.

8. Read/meditate daily. Stress is a huge part of our medical problems. Rest and relaxation are an easy way to change the course of your health. Ten minutes a day is a great start.

9. Only cook what you need and stop eating when you are full. So many people feel the need to overstuff themselves to experience the meal. Our bodies have a sensor that alarms us when we are full (we all know the feeling). Learn to stop and learn to listen to your body’s signals. Leaving food on your plate is OK. Say no to the extra drink or dessert.

10. Exercise daily. We can all do something, whether it is walking, running, biking, swimming, lifting a few light weights or jumping jacks. By adding exercise daily, not only will you prevent weight gain, but reduce your weight.

Your blood pressure will decrease, your blood sugar will be in control, your cholesterol will improve, your risk for cancer, stroke and heart attack will lesson. The list goes on. The best part about exercise is, you feel better and your attitude will show it.

Be blessed over the holiday season, and enjoy and love those around you. That is the best gift ever. Merry Christmas.

Karen Hourtovenko, RN(EC), is a Sudbury-based health and wellness consultant.

Posted by Vivian Scinto