Yes, the Holiday rush is upon us. And there is no stopping it.

For this, you should not hold your breath. Instead, take a few moments to assess the landscape.

The big picture

Ultimately, holidays were designed for family bonding, camaraderie with friends and all-around cheer merriment.  But how does one get all the work and preparation done in order to achieve this  goal?

• Planning — Back to the old-fashion checklist.  Write it all down. Categorize the important matters under Urgent,  Important and Routine. Attach specific dates and timelines.

Now, post it somewhere visible. You must see this master list every day. And it is subject to review daily.

• Budgeting — Financial planning is essential. Record your cash flow and expenses. Make sure you include a contingency fund.

Note to yourself: When things are tight, ask your parents or grandparents for a lifeline.

• Good health — Do not neglect your health as you go about your business.  Get into the habit of taking smoothies when you are pressed for time and are tempted to skip meal.

Perfect smoothie

Place 1 cup of old-fashioned oatmeal in a bowl of water overnight in the fridge. This is done to bring down its carbohydrate content. Add half cup to a blender uncooked.

Include your favorite fruits: Mango, pineapple, apple, add cinnamon and 2 tablespoons of raw honey.

Drink up. This will sustain you for a good two hours.

• Perfect Energy — Exercise daily for 20 minutes. The treadmill or brisk walking will do.

Drink two glasses of water before exercise and one glass after.

• Vitamin C Load Up — This is the life saver.. Take 1,000 mg of Vit C daily. If you can find Lyposomal Vit C in liquid or capsule, even better! You will feel the immediate results.