The holiday season is in full swing
and while most of us are out enjoying ourselves, there are evil Grinches out there ready to ruin our holiday if we are not paying attention. Unfortunately, some of these Grinches are outside sources, while others are Grinches of our own making.
Here are a few helpful hints to assist you in getting through the holiday season safely:
1. It can be a stressful and depressing time for many of us. Even though we try to make the best of it, we tend to slip into a bit of the holiday blues. Combat this with getting some regular exercise through each week of the holiday season. Whatever exercise that helps you to elevate your mood is perfect. FYI, Aerobic exercise is a great mood-booster.
2. Be conscious of not imbibing too much this holiday season. As alcohol can help you feel merrier during that holiday party, it can lead to poor choices and making you feel more like a Grinch for the next few days. Keep alcohol intake to 1-2 drinks at those fun holiday parties.
The next few tips are to help protect us from the evil Grinches that try to attack while we’re out enjoying the holiday season. During this time, we shop more, attend holiday parties, carry more money, have our hands full, load our cars with presents, and have gifts are being delivered to our doors. In general, we are more distracted, which means we are the perfect prey for Grinches. Here are some tips to avoid waking up in Whoville.
Accept the fact that there are dangerous people everywhere and not everyone is out there to enjoy the holidays.
3. Keep presents in the trunk and out of sight.
4. Park in a well-lit area of a parking lot. The closer to the entrance, the better.
5. If you are alone and feel uncomfortable walking to your car at night, ask for an escort to your car.
6. If possible, have at least one hand free or use a shopping cart to allow quick use of your hands if needed.
7. Don’t flash your cash.
8. Be aware at ATM’s when withdrawing money. Don’t let anyone in the vestibule – even if someone uses their card to buzz in, ask them to wait outside. Don’t have your back to the entrance – while hiding your pin code is important, maintaining a side profile puts you in an opportune position of awareness.
9. Package theft is at an all-time high. Schedule packages to be delivered when you are home.
Lastly, the weather outside is frightful, therefore always check your footing. If slipping and falling keep your chin on your chest to avoid hitting your head. No one really needs visions of sugarplums while laying by your car! Happy Holidays!
-Guy C., Fitness and Martial Arts Director at Dedham Health