Taming the stress monster

What's the best gift you can give yourself this holiday season? Serenity now. We went to three pros for their expertise on finding seasonal bliss

By Kate Rae

Beauty tips

When time is at a premium or fatigue sets in, we're tempted to forgo our usual beauty routine. These quick tips from Nick Barose, a New York-based makeup artist, will keep you looking rested – even when you're not.

1. Keep it simple
An easy routine is your best bet when it comes to holiday beauty – and taking care of your skin doesn't have to be complicated. "A good moisturizer and eye cream will instantly make your skin come to life and leave it looking plumped up and healthy," says Barose. "To perk up your look throughout the day, apply a non-sticky gloss in a soft tone and a bit of cream blush to make your skin look fresh."

2. Get your glow on
If you are short on time and need to look refreshed, add some much-needed radiance to your skin by mixing illuminating liquid with your foundation, says Barose. "Your skin will look dewy and soft instead of dull and tired," he says. "Go easy on pressed powder, though – it can make your skin look dull and fatigued."

3. Remove your makeup before bed
"In a pinch, makeup wipes are great," says Barose. "Use a few sheets to remove all traces of makeup."

Eating tips

Holiday time means eating on the run or making poor food choices. Cher Boomhower, a naturopathic doctor in Prince George, BC, shares her best tips on how to feel energized.

1. Limit your white flour intake and avoid quick hunger fixes
"When you grab a bagel, your blood sugar spikes quickly and insulin kicks in to pull your blood sugar down; then you grab more sweet stuff. It's a cycle that can really beat you down and make you irritable."

2. Eat protein at every meal and snack
Getting a balance of protein will ensure that your blood sugar never dips below panic level. "Keep hummus, nuts and mozzarella cheese around," says Boomhower. "If you're stuck in a food court, look for an Asian grill – just go easy on the sauces and limit your starches."

3. Get your essential vitamins
Many people tend to power through the holidays, only to get sick the minute they get a bit of downtime. To help prevent that, take a B-vitamin complex (vitamins B3 and B6) every day and vitamin C several times a day to help manage your stress response and keep healthy for the long haul. If you're having trouble sleeping because you're wired at the end of the day, try valerian root.

Self-care tips

When chaos ensues – and you know it will – finding your way back to calm is the key to enjoying the season. Katie Armstrong, a psychotherapist based in Toronto, tells you how to get there.

1. Put yourself first
Try taking 15 minutes out of your day to go for a walk in the sunshine (no matter how cold it is!), and make sure that you work in some time to get pampered. Even a 10-minute candlelit bath can help you recharge.

2. Make a list
If you know it's going to be a crazy time, it's a great idea to get as organized as possible. "Start making lists and pacing yourself," says Armstrong. "Know what you can do ahead of time and let go of the rest." Don't run yourself ragged this year trying to find that perfect gift for everyone on your list, she says.

3. Keep your eyes on the prize
Juggling a full workload and a hectic social calendar? Make a plan for when your downtime hits. "Treat yourself to a lipstick or a book or even a trip once it's all over," she says. "Create a bit of time for luxury, whether it's big or small."

First published in GLOW