Andfeeling stressedcan majorly increase the odds you’ll catch a cold, a study inEpidemiologynotes.
Seasonal solutions:Go fish.
To fend off germs, tote alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Stress raises levels of cortisol, which in turn ups oil production.
Afterward, apply moisturizer while your skin is wet.
“That will trap moisture in your top two layers of skin,” Dr. Read says.
Alternate drinking alcohol with H2O to slow your intake, and stay hydratedwake up refreshed, not hungover.
Seasonal solutions:Save the forest, and choose an artificial tree.
No need for pink aluminum a la Charlie Brown; these days, many look like the real thing.
A sneaky heartburn culprit?
Finally, low-fiber feasts can cause constipation.
Seasonal solutions:Obvious but smart: Ease off the rich stuff.
Why are we often more teary than cheery?
We also assess life at the end of the year, highlighting the future’s uncertainty.
Seasonal solutions:Recall what you’re grateful for, Dr. Pillay suggests.
Write thank-yous, or find ways togive back, such as compiling care packages for troops.
A study inPersonnel Psychologyfound people’s moods improved by 25 percent after helping others.
What better way to turn your gray mood sunny?