it is much better than sitting on the couch

it is much better than sitting on the couch channersurfing.”

Another misconception, especially ; around the holidays, is the use of alcohol to relax. Edwards says, “It does not feed youv body. It acts as a depressant. Alcohol is , chemicals and it weakens your body. / Unfortunately alcohol is a habit or routine for people to escape from problems.” v

The only positive thing Edwards says about alcohol: “Red wine can be good in moderation.” •

Another habit many people have ' acquired in order to relax is smoking. ■ Edwards says, “Smoking has an effect where - it relaxes you initially. Then it stops relaxing you and it becomes a depressant. It dehydrates you, which makes you out of control | and changes your whole personality. It can ]

actually make the holiday time more stress- j fill and make you sick.” ]

Another bad habit people have around* J the holidays is overeating. Edwards says,* ! “People overeat and they’re sick the next f day. Eat in moderation, eat little portions of I food. And try not to eat too much of the Bug-' 6 ary foods. Just eat a couple bites. You don’t | have to eat all of it.” 2 t:

And Edwards recommends traveling with healthy snacks, such as whole fruits, I nuts, and trail mixes to combat hunger from excessive traveling and long periods between meals.

Edward’s background

Edwards is a naturopath who works in • the county. She is foremost a teacher who . educates, empowers and motivates her clients to assume more personal responsibil- ' ity for their own wellbeing by adopting a healthy attitude, lifestyle and diet.

Edwards stresses customized counseling ' to adapt a program to each individual • depending on their lifestyle, exercise regime, - blood type and metabolism. To reach Edwards, call the Rappahannock Healing ’ Arts Center at 987-7241.