Limit caffeine and sugar. They may improve your mood and energy level for a short time, but they lead to fatigue later in the day. Consider rewarding yourself with a massage the week of the holiday preparations. Buy an envelope or two of those room scents to freshen your environment and your mood. Scientists are finding when you crave a certain food, your brain may be sending you a message.
Carbohydrates boost serotonin in the brain, which produces a calming effect.
Eat a toasted bagel or raisin English muffin with a spread of all-fruit jam, and allow at least an hour for the food to work. At meal time, include a lean protein source to get a dose of the amino acid tyrosine. Tyronsine combats the drowsiness associated with a high-carbohydrate meal. Or lightly stuff some celery with reduced-fat cheddar cheese spread and sprinkle with Italian or Mexican seasonings. Bread sticks, pretzels, and toasted pita bread triangles add crunch, but no fat, when you need something to go along with a welcoming cold drink.