What do Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s have in common? They’re all holidays, they’re all about spending time with loved ones, and they usually involve loss of sleep + overeating. So how can you fully enjoy the holidays without dragging for weeks afterwards? Follow our healthy holidays survival guide.

How to Survive the Holidays (and Feel Great)

  • smiling coupleMoisturize. We’ve had a long, warm autumn, but Old Man Winter has finally gotten ahold of East Tennessee. Keep your skin looking and feeling good by applying moisturizer twice a day. And remember: stepping into a warm house may feel like a hug from home, but it dries out your skin. Help your skin stay supple and smooth by moisturizing when you get home at the end of the day.
  • Get moving. There’s still time to sign up for the Turkey Trot (and you can even walk it!). Prefer to get an early start on cooking? Take a breather (and spend time with loved ones) with a family stroll around the neighborhood. Just make sure someone stays home in case the potatoes boil over (football fans are great for this job!).
  • Indulge (but not too much). There’s nothing wrong with enjoying juicy turkey, buttery mashed potatoes, and crisp apple pie—in moderation. Indulge in your favorite treats this Thanksgiving, but eat slowly to prevent overeating. You won’t only look better in the morning, you’ll feel better, too.
  • Feel the love. It’s a scientifically proven fact: hugs are good for the soul. So go ahead and hug your kids, snuggle up on the couch with your spouse, and cuddle your new grandbaby. God blessed you with an amazing family (and He’ll keep on blessing you).

Happy Thanksgiving from your friends at Dr. Brantner’s office!