Holiday Stooper

Hey Gals, I am basically in a post holiday coma. I'm trying to store all of my energy to rev up for the new year. Any suggestions on how to shake off that I really over-shopped, attended one two many family gatherings and had way to much chocolate (contrary to my previous beliefs, there is a such thing as too much chocolate) feeling? I think I'll try one day of doing absolutely nothing (heaven), a hot bath and maybe a very luxurious movie. By luxurious movie I mean checking out the new Gold Class Cinemas (a handful of theaters are scattered across the country). It's like the first class flight of movie theaters: huge comfortable seats, a waiter, great full course meal choices, and a first class $20 ticket price (very cool though). We'll see I'm checking out Avatar tonight.
Photo courtesy of Flickr by JeffGoop

Stress Less

Okay let's admit it, the recession is effecting all of us. Whether it be employment woes, the rising costs of living (gas prices are like $3.25 a gallon), or just constantly hearing over and over again in the media how bad everyone's doing. How much shopping can one do without digging deeper into the your own personal finance recession (I must admit a new dress or pair of shoes every now and then never killed anyone and does make me feel good)? Honestly speaking sometimes I just get stressed. How do I spell stress relief? These things sure might help.

Start with a deep breath, then try Yoga.

shown: Cat pose. Check out more stress relieving poses here

Then take a warm bath. There's nothing like a little aromatherapy. Add an oil with a soothing scent like Lavender, Chamomile or Vanilla.

Origins "Calm To Your Senses" Lavender and Vanilla Oil $22.50

Finally...Slip into something comfortable and get some well deserved rest

Victoria's Secret Soft Sheer Nightie $28. I always feel better and more relaxed after a bath and slipping into something sexy and comfortable. I must say, I love cotton!

Relax, Relate, Release

I NEED A VACATION! Not because I deserve it or there's this great Bed & Breakfast I've always wanted to check out. I need a vacation so I won't go insane. I need to take a break and I prefer to be on some fabulous beach while I take it. But the reality is, I can't just pack and up go whenever I please (unless I suddenly develop the urge to stop eating and no longer wish to have a place to live). No amount of shopping can save me this time. When the going gets tough, the tough (meaning me, you and everyone else out there who needs a break) take a mini vacation.

• Take a deep breath. When you've had enough, a couple of quiet deep breaths can really take the edge off.



• Act like a tourist in your own hometown. Take the day and check out the local attractions (museums, exhibits, etc). You'd be surprised at what's going on in your city.



• Get away if only for one day. Grab a girlfriend, boyfriend/husband or just go solo to a nice hotel (doesn't have to be too far, keep it close-no more than an hour away). Just relax in an environment without all the daily stresses of home (and don't forget to have a great meal and a even greater massage).

Coming soon...

Calgon Take Me Away: Try Yoga

How was your Christmas? I hope everyone enjoyed their day. I'm exhausted and would really love to get away and just relax (who's going with me?). If you can't escape and take a vacation right away Yoga is a great way to de-stress, relax and get fit in the process (all without the hassle of airport security). For you girls who are Yogis, you already know its secrets to success. Yoga is something I'm going to incorporate in the new year (starting today). Does Yoga do it for you?

P.S. Nike makes some cute Yoga gear (I couldn't resist).