The holidays are upon us. Family, friends food, food, food, and activities. How does one avoid getting stressed out, pigged out and out of the fitness routine?

Following are tips:

• Write your goals and place them on the fridge and other places where they will be frequently seen. For example - "I will continue to record my food intake and will continue to loose 1 lb per week - or - On Sunday I will plan my walks for the week and will not override these appointments".
• Say no - Be firm and friendly - "Thank you for the gingerbread cookie and biscotti (singular) they were great and I've had enough." "Thank your for the invite, my schedule is full for this week."
• Breathe - nothing is easier and less expensive, yet we forget to do/use it. Breathe in for 6 sec./ hold for 4/ out for 6 x 5-10 = a new attitude!
• Think positive rational thoughts and avoid statements like "forget exercise for the next month" and replace with - " I will need to carefully plan my exercise time."
• Identify a trusted friend and purge your frustrations - do this on a walk!
• Simplify your life and expectations of yourself. Ask - what do I really want and will it matter when I'm 75?