Knit one, purl one, relax lots

Stay mellow over the holidays by picking up needles and yarn. Knitting reduces stress hormones and releases endorphins that make you happy, says Herbert Benson, a physician and a co-author of “Relaxation Revolution.” “Focusing on the repetitive movements breaks the train of everyday worries,” he says.

Strike a pose

Practicing yoga three times a week makes people happier and less anxious than does walking indoors for the same period of time. A Boston University School of Medicine study reports that participants who did yoga achieved higher levels of GABA — a brain chemical that affects how we feel — than the subjects who walked.

Do a figure eight, lose weight

“Ice skating is a great way to burn calories and have fun,” says Danielle Hopkins, group fitness manager at Equinox in New York City. To get an aerobic workout, you’ll need to skate continuously, she says, but not rigorously: Skating at a moderate level of intensity for 30 minutes burns about 200 calories.

Tame supercharged tresses

“Hair static is caused by dryness,” says fashion hairstylist Jet Rhys. She recommends using L’Oreal Source de Richesse shampoo and Masque Richesse conditioner ($21 and $30, lorealprofessionnel .com). Finish with a smoothing product: Davines Momo Moisturizing Revitalizing Creme ($22.50, drugstore.com) “adds moisture without weighing hair down,” Rhys says.

Try a hands-on approach

A 45-minute Swedish massage can improve the immune system and may even ward off colds, according to research from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, in Los Angeles. Massage increases white blood cells, which help defend the body against disease.

Keep good company

Savor time with family and friends over the holidays. The most important moments in our lives are usually those we spend with others, according to a study in the journal Self and Identity. Individual achievements, such as success at work, matter less. “Relationships and social connections are at the center of the human experience,” says Shira Gabriel, a co-author of the study.

Scan the yogurt label

“Yogurt is a good source of protein, calcium, vitamin D and potassium,” says Christine Gerbstadt, M.D., a spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association. So pick the one that will benefit you most. Plain nonfat Greek yogurt is a great choice, with lots of calcium and twice the protein of regular yogurt. Top with granola for flavor and fiber.