Staying Healthy This Holiday Season
Here we go again! The holiday season is upon us, the spirits are high, and the extra calories and festive temptations are knocking at our door. During this time of year, a lot of people struggle with staying on track – myself included. This is why I chose my next blog topic to be about staying healthy during the holidays. I believe a healthy balance exists between thoughtful decision making and rewarding oneself. If done correctly, we have the opportunity to proudly welcome 2018 in complete control of our health! Here’s a few tips to help you do just that:
Create a plan!
Create a daily plan and make time for YOU.
Be Optimistic!
While working to complete your plan and reach your goals, it’s important to keep an optimistic mindset. If you miss a workout or if you eat too much one day, it isn’t the end of your journey. Show yourself some gratitude. Get back on track tomorrow!
Meal Prep
Have healthy foods available to you at all times. Plan healthy meals for the week and carry this through to the new year. Being prepared ensures success for healthy eating.
Everything in moderation
Eating healthy throughout the holidays is great, but that doesn’t mean you have to avoid every treat in sight. Try using the 90/10 rule (or even 80/20) – Stay on track for the majority of your day! Try Aunt Marg’s cookies, but don’t eat 10 of them. And instead of sampling everything at the party, just enjoy your favourites.
Bring something healthy to share at a party
This will ensure that you have at least one healthy dish to eat or snack on while enjoying the festivities with your friends or family. They may even appreciate it, too!
Avoid the sugary drinks
Don’t get me wrong, candy-cane hot-chocolates and egg-nog lattes ARE delicious, but are full of empty calories, preservatives, and SUGAR. Try sticking to regular coffee or tea if you need a caffeine fix.
Drink Up!
Sometimes we confuse thirst with hunger. Try drinking 2-3L a day – this will keep you well hydrated and the health benefits are awesome. Also, enjoy alcoholic beverages in moderation. These, too have many hidden and unwanted calories. Red wine is your best option if you choose to indulge!
Schedule time in your day for exercise
Get outside and enjoy some fresh air, take the stairs, go for a walk, or if you are a regular gym goer, schedule time in your day to make sure you get there and get it done – even if you only have 15-20 minutes. Your health is the most important thing you have. Working out isn’t just for burning calories! It also relieves stress, releases happy endorphins, and promotes better sleep. Do it for your sanity this holiday season.
Organize family/friend time around activities other than meals
Don’t center everything around indulging in food and drink. Get out for a hike or snowshoe, schedule a games night, or go see a show!
Sleep is a gift
Sleep is crucial for our bodies! Getting 7-8 hours of sleep will benefit your overall health, mood, immune system, memory, weight control, lower your risk of injury, and clear your thinking throughout the day.
Set aside time to de-stress and disconnect
Burnouts are very common towards the end of the year! Make sure to take time for YOU. Put your feet up, find a good book, and RELAX. Also, find time to disconnect from the world. Put away that ipad, phone, and email inbox. Instead, practice Yoga or Meditate! You’ve worked hard all year and deserve a break.
Get Adjusted
Putting up the holiday lights, wrapping presents for hours, or last-minute shopping can leave us stressed out and achy all over. Listen to your body! Chiropractic has been shown to help with reducing stress and alleviating the pain associated with it. Get in and get adjusted!
Find someone to hold you accountable
Whether it be your spouse, best friend, or colleague, find someone to push you through the holidays! Tackling the Christmas season with someone by your side ensures a much higher chance of staying on track.
Start resolutions NOW
Utilizing the holidays to limit health damage as well as prevent a downward slide is a great way to welcome in the New Year and will put you ahead of the game!
Healthy habits are a lifestyle, and if you can even follow half of these tips into the holiday season, you will be well on your way to a healthy and happy New Year. Happy Holidays from my family to yours!
