Happy Christmas to all our friends who receive the Vimiera Village monthly newsletter. It is just around the corner. Now, here are a few Christmas Time Tips. The inevitable shopping means pushing through crowded stores, trying to purchase and then line up; at the cash register. And trek up steps, and fight for parking spots in the car park. OK, so the feet become tired and achey. When you arrive home, place the feet in a dish of lovely hot water. Soak for ten minutes. Then dry with a coarse towel. This improves circulation and removes lactic acid which builds up causing fatigue. It brings fresh blood and oxygen. Then if you are able, lie on the floor and place your feet up against the wall or on an ottoman. Better still, have someone gently massage the feet and gently push blood from feet to knees. This again improves circulation. Looks crazy, but gives great relief.

PLAN CHRISTMAS

Plan well for Christmas. Eat food you know agrees. Even at this happy time, eating foods to which your stomach objects is bad news. Go quietly on food during December, except for the big splurge. Specially those containing fat – even though it is very tempting. Too many choccies and sweets will also cause regret in January.

Eat sparingly on Christmas morning, so there is plenty of room for Christmas Dinner. Heaps like a snooze afterwards. This wont hurt, but going for a walk is a better idea, and helps move food in the gut system which is probably groaning already. Some simple antacid tablets like Mylanta or Degas are handy, and neutralise acid, and help get rid of wind which can cause bloating and discomfort.

Kids still are bewildered by the wonderment of Christmas, which is what it is all about. Enjoy it with them. If buying presents, remember educational type ones are better than sweets which only fill and fatten. Water and fruit juice are better than fizz and chemical laden drinks, but is a bit hard to police.

NOTE FOR OLDER FOLK

Vimiera Village has homely comfortable Assisted Living Units which provide all meals, linen supply and service, cleaning, comfort, security, on wall emergency and others with whom you may socialize.

Phone David on 02 9868 7544 for more details. It is on transport and near Macquarie Centre.

Best wishes till next month from your friend,