The first is lack of sleep. You've got parties to go to, family to visit, you're not sleeping in your own bed — it wears you down. I avoid sleeping aids if I can, so instead try an old trick: naps. Even 20 minutes in the afternoon can make a huge difference in your energy level. Second is alcohol. Calories, hangovers, and mood swings generally do not make for merriment. At the same time, a hot toddy can make all the Bing Crosby music easier to deal with. What can I say? Drink in moderation. And alternate each drink with a glass of water. The third is exercise. Each morning, before anything else, do a quick and simple workout.
We get a lot of car crashes, falls, burns in the ER. It's icy, people are drinking, they're messing around with the oven or fireplace. But here's the surprising thing: I see a spike in heart transplants. Part of that's the car accidents, but part of it is family. Family-related stress can skyrocket when everyone gets together. And you're more likely to be murdered by someone you know than anyone else. But seriously, if things are really unbearable in your clan, consider just sending a card.