Every year, so many people end up stressing out during the holidays, eating poorly and self-indulgently, dealing with family matters that may be uncomfortable or difficult, or just working too hard to get ready for the festivities.

Here are ten quick and easy ideas to make your holidays healthier.

1. Take things in stride! You may not get to every single thing you need to do today – do what you can, and remember the reason you’re doing it, so you can feel good along the way.

2. Eat intelligently – stuffing yourself, even when the food is delicious and you rationalize that “it’s only once a year” is a poor strategy for being healthy – pace yourself with your eating, and wait between courses to see just how hungry you are – don’t let your eye be bigger than your belly!

3. Breathe – in traffic, waiting on line while shopping, or when in deep thought, remember to breathe so you get life-giving air to all of your body parts. Take a few deep breaths any time you are feeling pressure, and you’ll be amazed how quickly you feel better.

4. Drink lots of water – you need to hydrate yourself when you are working hard, thinking hard, or playing hard.

5. Get enough rest – staying up late occasionally is fine when you have a good reason, but remember to sleep sufficiently to sustain your energy levels, since there tends to be more demand during the holiday season.

6. Let others help you – the holidays tend to bring out the martyr in many of us. You don’t need to do it all yourself, get some support when needed.

7. Take a few minutes (or longer if necessary) to claim some little bit of quiet time for yourself along the way. Those brief meditative interludes are rejuvenating.

8. Do as much good as you possibly can – it makes you feel good to be of value to others, especially at this time of year.

9. Blow off a little steam with some vigorous exercise at least a few times a week.

10. Visit your chiropractor or natural health specialist of choice – keep your body in tune and working at peak efficiency, so you have it when you really need it.

Follow these simple rules, and you’ll be amazed how well you handle all the challenges and opportunities that arise. Have a wonderful holiday season!