The holidays are a wonderful joyous time of year but they can also be very stressful Even the most anticipated and joyful occasions can take a toll on your body and mind. Here are 5 tips to help you enjoy a happy and healthy holiday:
- MAKE A PLAN
People are easily knocked off their healthy routine because of how busy the start of the winter season is.
However, don’t let busy weekends and winter break get in the way of being healthy. It may seem stressful, but map out the first month or two of the winter season
- FOCUS ON HOW YOU’RE EATING, NOT WHAT YOU’RE EATING
I am a firm believer in portion control and scheduled meals over calorie counting or following a strict diet. Whenever possible, stick to 3 meals of about 2 hand-sized portions of food each, and 3 snacks of about one hand-sized portion of food each, per day.
- IDENTIFY SOURCES OF STRESS
Nothing can hijack a holiday celebration like stress. Identifying sources of stress in the days and weeks leading up to a holiday lets you prepare mentally and physically, so they don’t ruin your fun.
- STAY ACTIVE
Don’t overlook the importance of regular physical activity to stay healthy! Even walking for thirty minutes a day does wonders for your health. Take a walk through the neighborhood or, if the weather is bad, walk around a local shopping mall. If you’re physically fit, why not suggest a fun activity your friends and relatives can all enjoy?
- TAKE TIME FOR SELF-CARE
Practice self-care during the holidays by taking a nap or a bath, meditate, read a book, go for a walk, a drive, or a bike ride by yourself, and even get a manicure or pedicure. Making yourself a priority is not selfish. After you take care of yourself, you will have much more energy to care for everyone else.
