1. Keep Moving
Holidays are all about breaking routines and rules (and that is a good thing!), but don’t be too lenient with your workout routine. Remember that your body still needs to be cared for. If you’re short on time, take your workout from the gym to your living room. Try an online exercise video, take a 15-minute walk, or play at least one active game during your festivities. Bonus points if the activity is outside!
2. Focus on Connection, Not Perfection
Are you hosting a big holiday shindig? Are you worried about having your house perfectly clean or cooking each dish without a single mishap? These concerns are common surrounding the holiday season and can unfortunately take away from the joy and celebration. Take a step back and look at the big picture. Not everything is going to be perfect, and that’s okay. Instead of worrying about creating the perfect holiday experience, let go of your expectations and instead focus on deepening the connection between you and your friends and family. Accept the imperfections and be thankful for the good times. This will free you up to truly experience the joy of the celebration.
3. Pack on the Nutrients
Eggnog, gingerbread, apple pie, snickerdoodles. There’s nothing wrong with splurging on your favorite holiday foods and treats – in moderation of course. Make sure you’re also adding nutrient-dense foods onto your plate. Look for brightly colored fruits and veggies (the brighter the color, the more vitamins and minerals).
If your diet isn’t perfect (whose is?), you may want to opt for some “nutritional insurance” in the form of a multivitamin. A multi will make sure your body is getting all the nutrients it needs to function properly. Plus, a multi provides the energy-supporting B vitamins you need to hustle through the season.
4. Be Mindful of Screentime
Are you constantly scrolling through your phone, looking at everyone’s so-called “perfect” social media pages? Be mindful of how much time you spend looking at your phone, not only can this have a negative impact on your eye health, it can also take a toll mentally. Stop comparing yourself to others and take time to write a list of things you feel grateful for.
5. Practice Self-Care
The holidays are all about spreading joy to others, but don’t forget what brings YOU joy. Self care tips for the holiday season include things like meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, and aromatherapy. Sometimes it can be something small and simple like reading a few pages of a book or taking a warm bath. Want to practice self-care but don’t know where to start? Read more about how to start a self-care routine.
6. Have A Pick-Me-Up on Hand
You may be doing everything right and incorporating all the wellness tips for the holiday season, but you’re still feeling a little sluggish. Say hello to your new best friend – Caffeine!
Stock up all things caffeinated, like coffee and tea (but try to steer clear of calorie-heavy sweeteners and creamers). You could also try an energy drink or an energy supplement for a convenient pick-me-up.
Chocolate, another holiday fav contains small amounts of caffeine. And while enjoying a sweet treat every so often can help to lift your “sweet” spirits, it likely won’t amass to the benefits that coffee, tea, and energy drinks can provide.
7. Stay Hydrated
With so many delicious treats throughout the holiday season, it can be easy to forget what your body really needs – like good old H2O! While many holiday drinks like hot chocolate and egg nogg may be good for the soul, they can be filled with added calories, sugar, and alcohol (which can exacerbate dehydration). Make sure to keep a water bottle nearby so you can sip throughout the day. Your body will thank you.
8. Stick to a Sleep Schedule
Whatever range of emotions you are dealing with this holiday season, your mind needs periods of rest and relaxation. After all, wellness starts with sleep. Without it, our energy levels and immune health can take a downturn.
Sleep during the holidays can be thrown off, especially when kiddos want to stay up late or wake up early. It may be easier said than done but try to get at least 7 hours of sleep each night. Some helpful sleep habits include:
- Turning off electronics at least one hour before bed
- Getting enough exercise during the day
- Having a comfortable, dark room
- Avoid large meals, alcohol, and caffeine before bedtime
- Follow a nightly routine
- If you need a nap during the day, keep it short
- Keep sounds at bay with earplugs or a sound machine
Try out any (or all) of these tips and get ready to experience an energized holiday season!
References
1. American Psychological Association. Holiday Stress (2006). Accessed Nov 9, 2022. https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2006/12/holiday-stress and https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2006/12/holiday-stress.pdf