The holidays—Christmas, Thanksgiving, New Years—are at our throats once again.
Studies have shown that this is the time of year when people are most at risk for “coronary events.” Heart attacks.
Why? The stress of the holidays, overeating, over-drinking are all big contributors to health-related emergencies. Especially if your health isn’t the greatest to begin with, and you may be a biscuit away from a heart attack. In my 35 years of representing victims of medical and hospital malpractice, I have found that the single biggest way to avoid malpractice is to avoid doctors and hospitals.
Some suggestions for the holidays and beyond:
- Everything in moderation. You don’t have to keep up with the Joneses drink-for-drink at a holiday party. Portion control on the stuffing and mashed potatoes. You don’t have to eat every cookie everyone brings to the office.
- Exercise more. You don’t need to go to the gym. Take a walk before breakfast and another one after dinner. You’ll feel better.
- Get a dog. Rescue dogs are the best. It’s hard to tell if you rescued them or if they’re rescuing you. They’ll help get you off the couch and out of the house, and all the love is a big added bonus.
- Get enough sleep. Make it a priority. All the tips listed above will help you get a better night’s sleep.
- Don’t drink and get behind the wheel of your 5,000-pound car. People tend to do this more during the holidays. Getting a DUI is expensive and can cost you your license. Getting into an accident while under the influence is worse. Uber or Lyft can give you a safe alternative to get home. Your car will still be waiting for you the next morning.
Happy holidays. Stay safe.