Stress seems to be a common theme and usually more prevalent during the holiday season worrying about the perfect dress, events, shopping or family gatherings.

Stress does not always have to have a negative effect. But when you start to realize you may be alittle jumpy, short with others, tired and maybe feeling ill, now is the time to stop, look and listen to you body to maintain equilibrium mentally and physically.

Stress does decrease your immune system and make you more vulnerable to certain illnesses. How many people do you know now who are complaining of lack of sleep and not enough time in the day? Are you one of them? Investing in Yourself is so vital for proper equilibrium in your body. Stop, look and listen to your body. It will tell you when you have pushed yourself enough.

It will tell you when you need to take time for yourself. But when you play the "victim" and blame others for your poor health and/or lack of life satisfaction then it is time for you to realize the victim role will not make you a winner in your life. You have to be willing to acknowledge and commit to yourself that you need to change your way of thinking of yourself as a victim of circumstances.

You need to claim "victory" and admit the things you do or not do and way you think does affect your health. You need to say I want victory from my life and change has to start with me. Accept and move on to an Invest in Yourself life filled with a healthy lifestyle, exercise,proper nutrition and time for self.

Patricia McGowan RN,BSN,CSHE is a professional nurse who is certified in health ergonomics . She is an author of the Investin Yourself, Health is the New Real Estate and speaker. She is co-owner of Invest N Yourself and the website is http://www.investnyourself.com.