The holidays are special. But playing Santa can be a pain in the neck - or back and legs. Santa's got the elves. But you have to go out and get the presents yourself. And wrap them. And deliver them. This can be physically exhausting and stressful. To help you survive with your body - and holiday spirits - intact, here are some tips from the American Chiropractic Association.

Shopping for the Gifts

• Do some stretching before and after shopping.
• Wear shoes that have well-cushioned soles to soften the impact of walking on hard floors.
• Wear layers of clothing.
• Don't carry a purse. Instead carry only the essentials in a light fanny pack.
• Get a locker at the mall, so you don't have to carry around mounds of packages.
• If lockers aren't available, plan trips to your car to store packages.
• Take breaks every 45 minutes.
• Don't drink coffee during the breaks. Instead, drink some water and eat a light salad and fruit.

Wrapping the Gifts

• Vary your positions. Stand at a table to wrap the first present, sit on a chair to wrap the next present, wrap the next present while sitting on the bed, and so on.
• Don't sit on a hard floor to wrap presents.
• Stretch before and after wrapping.

Delivering the Gifts - Travel Tips

• If you're driving, don't grip the steering wheel. This creates muscle fatigue in the arms, wrists and hands. Alternate between a tight and loose grip to improve circulation in your hands.
• Reduce eye fatigue and tension headaches by varying your focal point while driving. (But always keep your eyes on the road.)
• Adjust the seat so you are as close to the steering wheel as comfortably possible, with your knees slightly higher than your hips.
• Use a back support.
• Prolonged sitting in a car, train or plane builds up pressure in the blood vessels in your lower legs. Help keep the blood flowing properly by contracting and relaxing the muscles.
• Stretch your toes as wide as possible to the count of 10. Tighten your calf, thigh and gluteal muscles to the count to five. (Keep your hands on the steering wheel and your eyes on the road.)
• If you're flying, maintain the normal "s" curve of your spine with rolled-up pillows or blankets. If the plane seat is saggy, pad it with folded blankets to elevate your buttocks.
• If traveling by plane or train, avoid leg cramps by varying your position. Occasionally tuck your legs in, move your knees up and down, and massage your legs and calves.
• However you're traveling, roll your shoulders forward and back, as well as up and down, and avoid drafts on your neck and shoulders.
• Breathe deeply.

Conclusion

The holidays are fast-paced, and many activities resemble Olympic events. Treat them as such and ready yourself as any athlete would - with a healthy diet, plenty of water, and lots of stretches. And one more thing: Have a safe and happy holiday season, everyone.

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