Stress: Start your day off right by preparing the night before! By choosing your clothes, preparing your morning coffee or prioritizing the work day to come, you can start the day off on the right foot and reduce unwanted stress. By getting ahead of the game, you will start off fresh and be more productive throughout the day.

Sleep: Old mattresses can give you more than back problems. Dust mites that settle into mattresses over time can cause health problems such allergies and can also be problematic for those suffering from asthma. According to a study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, reducing the level of dust mites in the bedroom can be achieved by replacing old mattresses and increasing a room's ventilation. Replace your mattress at least every 10 years to maximize your beauty rest and keep you healthy!

Fluids: Instead of after-dinner coffee, try a homemade clove tea infusion. Typically found on your holiday ham, in spiced cider and apple pie, cloves steeped in hot water make a delicious and festive alternative to your regular cup of tea. An added health benefit? Cloves are believed to fight infection and promote digestion due to their active ingredient, eugenol. Simply pour 1 cup boiling water on 1 tsp. of cloves and let it steep for ten minutes.

Personal Time: Don't let the approach of winter and the onset of winter blues cool down your sex drive. Chocolate contains the stimulant, phenylethylamine, and research suggests that it promotes feelings of intimacy. Have a romantic candlelit dinner followed by some antioxidant-rich dark chocolate (try covered orange rinds or look for brands that add spices!) or curl up on the couch with a couple (you still need to use portion control) decadent chocolate truffles to set the mood.

Exercise: Why wait until after the New Year to get fit? Get CrossFit! A fantastic, fun and intense alternative to your current gym routine, CrossFit is a strength and conditioning methodology that encompasses all aspects of fitness including cardiovascular/respiratory endurance, stamina, strength, flexibility, power, speed, agility, balance, coordination, and accuracy. CrossFit utilizes an array of cutting edge fitness equipment making workouts fun and challenging. Atypical of your standard gym class, CrossFit utilizes a combination of plyometric and agility drills, medicine balls and rope climbing amongst other odd objects such as kettlebells and car tires. And, workouts usually include little or no rest! Check www.crossfit.com for a location near you!

Diet: If there is something your market is sure to have this month it is winter squash. Try baked acorn or butternut squash for their nutty flavor and high levels of vitamin A, vitamin C and fiber. Also rich in carotenoids, winter squash is known for its anti-cancer properties and being delicious. To bake, slice down the center, remove the seeds and place the cut side down on a roasting pan. Pour water 1⁄4 inch deep in the pan and bake at 400°F for 15 minutes. Then, flip over and bake cut-side up until tender. Remove from the pan, scoop out the squash and sprinkle with nutmeg, cinnamon or other toppings and serve!

Beauty: Looking for a new natural sweetener that will also help you look your best? Active Manuka Honey from New Zealand has antioxidant, antimicrobial, antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties. It has a delicious flavor and can help combat infections and boost your immune system. Honey also contains magnesium, which increases the skin's moisture retention and improves cell production and scalp circulation. Use a teaspoon in tea, on oatmeal, with fresh apples or anywhere you want a little extra sweetness and beauty!

Enjoy December and remember to live a Nutritious Life!