(NC) -- As joyful and exciting as it may be - surviving the busy and often stressful holiday season unscathed is no easy feat. Between annual vacation schedules, work parties, family dinners, gift shopping and winter driving, holiday burnout is all too common.

Here are some tips to help you stay healthy and energized this holiday season:

• Sleep well: Sleep plays an integral role in our day-to-day lives, and getting enough of it is as vital for fuelling the body as food. Sleep deprivation can lead to fatigue, learning and concentration difficulties and even increased risk of accidents. Though sleep requirements vary from one person to the next, it's extremely important to get the appropriate amount of sleep for the body to function optimally.

• Laugh often: Research shows laughter is a great medicine. Humour produces psychological and physiological effects on the body that are similar to the health benefits of aerobic exercise. If Santa can be jolly during the holidays, you should be too!

• Address waning energy: Feeling sluggish, irritable or unusually weak during the holidays could be attributed to more than just a busy schedule. It's important to pay special attention to the body and address symptoms that could point to a problem. For men over the age of 45, a decrease in energy, body changes and mood changes could be a sign of health related issues and in some cases, the culprit may be a condition known as hypogonadism or Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome, also referred to as Low Testosterone (Low T). Low T is an abnormally low level of testosterone and is estimated to affect up to 40 per cent of men in Canada over the age of 45 and often goes misdiagnosed. To rule out any potential health issues, it's important for both men and women to talk to a doctor about any health concerns that affect their lifestyle and day-to-day activities. For more information on Low T, visit www.lowt.ca.

• Stay active: Take this opportunity to head outdoors and try a new winter sport or take an outdoor stroll. Lack of physical activity can have an impact on mood and energy levels. An analysis by University of Georgia researchers found overwhelming evidence that regular exercise plays a significant role in increasing energy levels and reducing fatigue. Even at the most hectic times - it's important to make time for regular exercise.

Be positive: The end of the holiday season brings a new and exciting year, which for some is an opportunity to start anew and refresh. Set new goals and have a positive outlook – it makes the season easier to get through.