Although holiday gatherings for some families may resemble a Norman Rockwell painting, said Gannett News Service writer Betsy Miner Swartz in the Star-Gazette, for many they’re “about dysfunction, over-sharing, under-appreciating, raised voices, dicey conversations and zinger comments.” Don’t take the bait: “The best way to extinguish an inflamed remark or criticism is to take the high road and ignore it.” Create diversions: “Haul out family photos” or “play a fun game.” And find some quiet time: “Slip off into another room by yourself for a bit or take a quick stroll.”
The holidays can also be tough on the waistline, said Becky Fox in Knoxville’s News Sentinel. When we’re “hungry we not only eat more, but we make poorer food choices,” so “eat something healthy before you arrive at your holiday party destination.” You don’t have to “deprive yourself of those foods you love,” but try to eat smaller portions. And stay active—“exercising will help to keep your appetite under control, stress levels manageable, as well as allow you to burn some extra calories.”
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