Whether you’re enjoying a festive dinner, a few extra treats, or resting by a fire, stay on track with your health goals with the following holiday health tips and tricks.
Keep It Real This Holiday Season
Practice Gratitude
The holidays might be different this year. Large gatherings and some other activities may not be safe or possible. Practicing gratitude will reframe your circumstances in a positive light and keep you grounded.
Become Aware
Before the holidays, try to identify the situations, places, or feelings that tend to make you reach for comfort food. Write a list of alternative things that you can do to fulfill yourself emotionally rather than turning to food. For example: read a book, call a friend, spend time with family, or go for a walk outside.
Sleep Well
Get 7-8 hours of sleep. Being well-rested helps alleviate feeling overwhelmed and stressed during the holidays.
Share Your Goals
By sharing your own goals, you might realize that many around you are also committed to their own health journey. Support each other in avoiding temptations and staying on track.
Holiday Tips & Tricks to Play it Safe
Plan Ahead
Did you know drunk drivers play a role in over 40% of traffic accidents over the holidays? Enjoy a glass, but be smart and plan ahead!
Stay Healthy
In addition to Covid, tis the season for colds and cases of flu. Wash your hands and stop the spread! Drink lots of fluids and get your rest. It’s also a great time to enjoy delicious soups, stews, and nutritious broths.
Burn it Off
Don’t Forget to Exercise
Reduce stress, weight gain, and seasonal depression by reaping the benefits of moving your body. Additionally, after you’ve eaten a big meal, walk it off. The gentle upright movement improves digestion and helps prevent heartburn. You’ll also get your steps in!
Set a Date
You’re not the only one who wants to stay active during the holidays. Now is a great time to include a friend or family member. Keep each other accountable by planning an activity date.
Take it Outside
With the holiday season comes the darker winter months. You may experience changes in your mood, energy levels, sleep patterns, and motivation. Conquer the winter blues by taking your activity outside. Enjoy the sunshine and vitamin D!
Include the Family
The holidays are about spending time with family. Stay active with fun activities like tobogganing, skating, skiing, or snowshoeing. Enjoy a nature trail or get out for a bicycle ride.
Enjoy Festive Foods
It can be extra tempting during the holidays to indulge. By engaging in healthy habits like being aware of the liquid calories you’re consuming (hello, peppermint mocha), choosing your festive food splurges wisely, and practicing mindful eating, you can enjoy some of your favorite festive foods while staying on track.
If you’re looking to try a new holiday recipe that doesn’t break the calorie bank consider making pomegranate and pistachio dark chocolate bark, gingerbread truffles, or baked pears with cranberries and pecans.
Enjoy The Holiday Season
Don’t pause your healthy living goals during the holidays. Staying consistent with small habits will have a big impact after the holidays are done leaving you feeling ready to take on a new year of exciting adventures.
Did you find any of these tips especially helpful? Be sure to connect with us on Instagram and send us a message. We would love to get to know you better!