Post-holiday blues

The days after Christmas and New Year have their issues. This article intends not to let you down after the holidays but to remind you to use these significant occasions as learning opportunities. It is a friendly reminder to keep you out of the post-holiday blues.

1.) Fireworks injuries and fire incidents. Under the current administration, the statistics of fireworks-related incidents have tremendously dropped. However, there are still a few victims for not heeding the call to use a trumpet. It is a bad start to the New Year if you are a fire victim. Be safe always.

2.) Tons of garbage in parks and streets. Tons of holiday trash scattered everywhere after different street parties. Many people have forgotten to dispose of used plastic and bottles properly. It is not a good habit to keep. Clean as you go.

3.) Indigestion and hangovers. Overeating and over-drinking usually result in these health problems. It is a good practice to eat and drink moderately. Share the leftovers with those in need.

4.) Sleep deprivation and weight gain. Recent studies show that lack of sleep to oversleeping may increase food intake and metabolism imbalance, thus increasing weight gain. Having a good rest and a balanced diet is the key.

5.) Fully-booked trip. Traveling without a round-trip ticket is a problem at this time. You don't like to suffer the inconvenience of being a chance passenger, do you? Good thing January 2 is a Special Non-Working holiday to give time to travel back home after Christmas break.

6.) Deficit family budget and spending bills. If you overspend beyond your means, you suffer deficit and serious debts. Do not spend more than you earn. Celebrating holidays with less indulgence doesn't make your celebration less meaningful anyway.

7.) Inventories and clearances. The stock inventories and clearance sales may keep you busy at work. But don't forget to spend time with your family with or without holidays.

8.) Overrated greetings and New Year's resolutions. You can see these messages flooding your phone. You can hear these Happy New Year greetings a thousand times at home and work. Don't make a list of new years' resolutions you cannot follow anyways.

9.) Lack of exercise. Too much food intake during these holidays without proper body exercise and medical maintenance is harmful to one's health. You don't need to go to a gym. A few miles of brisk walk or running is good for your health and wellness.

10.) Death by hypertension. Death due to hypertension in the post-holiday period is alarming and not a joke. "Last Christmas" singer George Michael and his sister died after Christmas. So have your doctor monitor your blood pressure regularly and maintain a healthy lifestyle.