Holiday To-Do List

Try these memory-boosting tricks to remember everything you need to get done.

Write it all down.
Writing reinforces your memory by prompting you to store two different types of information: the name of the task and the physical act of writing the item down.

Get some exercise.
Any kind of exercise increases the flow of blood to your brain, which can help keep you sharper and prevent forgetfulness.

Learn holiday tunes.
Research shows that learning a new song works both your auditory and verbal memory functions: A benefit to your memory as a whole.

Stay Calm.
Give yourself more time. Start shopping sooner or break up household cleaning tasks.

Take your vitamins.
Daily multivitamins contain vitamins A, C, E, and B-complex and minerals like magnesium, calcium, zinc and selenium.

Catch some zzz's.
Getting seven to eight hours for most people helps you consolidate new memories.

Keep It Clean

Disinfect unlikely areas for less disease!

Cellphones:
Mobile phones can harbor more bacteria than a toilet seat. Look for touch-screen-safe cleaners on the market, put a little on a clean, soft antimicrobial cloth and wipe down your phone's screen, buttons and back.

Sinks:
Your kitchen sink contains about 1,000 times more bacteria than the average toilet. Wipe kitchen and bathroom sinks regularly with disinfecting wipes to help kill bacteria and viruses. Open under-sink cabinet doors periodically. The light and air will help prevent mold growth.

Washing Machine:
In a study of 100 homes, 33 percent of washing machines tested positive for E. coli. Wash underwear separately using bleach. Allowing your machine to dry between cycles or rinsing the drum weekly with added bleach will also keep E. coli counts to a minimum.

Dishcloths:
10% of household dishcloths contain salmonella, 32% contained E. coli. During flu season, 60% are positive for influenza. Launder dishcloths after every use.