The holiday

season represents the most joyous of occasions, filled

with cheer and delight. It is also considered to be one

of the more stressful times of the year.

A recent

poll in Prevention magazine found the holiday season

remarkably stressful for 41 percent of Americans. It is

also fairly evident that when one is overly stressed or

depressed, one may begin to overeat.

A 1996 Duke

University study of obese men and women found that 65

percent of the subjects reported a history of emotional

despair. Consider the fact that one in five Americans is

obese and the reasons to curb holiday stress and

overeating are glaringly apparent.

The average

American gains seven to 10 pounds between Thanksgiving

and New Year's Day. Most people will consume

approximately 500 extra calories every day during the

holidays. That translates to 3,500 calories, or a pound

per week. You may not be snacking because you're stressed

out, and you may just be stressed out and not snacking at

all, but here are some tipss to alleviate both problems.

To cope

with holiday stress:

* Review your schedule -

Organize your schedule each day, allowing a greater

feeling of control and order. List daily activities

according to their importance.

* Delegate responsibility - List

all your responsibilities that can be shared.

* Get physical - Physical

activity is a known stress reducer. It can serve as a

"mental distraction" and give you a break.

* Relax through deep breathing and

visualization - Inhale slowly through your nose.

Then, exhale slowly through your mouth while contracting

the stomach. Visualize the tension and stress flowing out

of your body with your exhaled breath. Repeat as often as

needed.

Cravings

and urges will surface over the holiday season. Identify

the situation and follow these tips from Weight Watchers

to battle the cravings.

* Acknowledge the craving -

Ignoring the craving will only make it stronger.

* Avoid self-judgments - Remind

yourself that the cravings are normal and require

attention.

* Step into action - Determine

whether the food craved is within guidelines. If so, eat

in the appropriate portion size. If not, seek an

appropriate alternative such as pretzels instead of chips

or nonfat yogurt instead of ice cream.

Most of

all, remain calm. The holidays are meant to be enjoyed.