5 Holiday Habits To Help You Prioritize Your Health and Wellness
The end of the year can feel hectic, to say the least. Endless hours spent planning, attending, or hosting gatherings, cooking and baking, shopping, and wrapping, decorating, and traveling… the hustle and bustle of this time of year can mean that you’re noticeably less present in maintaining your own health and wellness. Commit to making this the year where all that changes with these five tips that will help you prioritize your health and wellness this holiday season:
1. Move Your Body
Take a stroll in the neighborhood to see holiday lights, sign up for that holiday-themed 5k, or throw a dance party to your favorite holiday tunes while decorating. Make it fun and embrace active movement while pairing it with some fun holiday activities.
2. Be Proactive and Set Boundaries
If you already know you have too much on your plate and the anxiety of doing too much is creeping in, don’t be afraid to say ‘no’ to that seemingly fun outing. Take pride in setting limits and not overdoing it. Let go of expectations that you may have of your holidays needing to look “perfect” to be enjoyable.
3. Eat, Drink, and Be Merry
That wine and cheese basket you get in the grab bag or those sugar cookies your neighbor drops off might seem tempting, and while it’s okay to indulge, make sure you are also munching on nutrient-rich snacks and meals. Offer to bring a veggie platter to a gathering or sip on a mocktail. Be sure to limit sugary beverages and alcohol and drink lots of water.
4. Get Some Shut Eye
Staying up late to wrap the gifts or bake the cookies will not ease any of the added stress that comes along with the holidays. You’ll feel more energized and focused when you commit to maintaining a healthy sleep routine, especially during the holiday season.
5. Take Time to De-Stress
It is pretty common to feel stressed during the holidays. Take some time for yourself to wind down by doing something for you. That could be cooking your favorite meal and savoring what you love most about it, reading or meditating, or listening to a favorite podcast. Acknowledge it’s okay (even essential!) to dedicate time for yourself. It’s easy to focus on everyone else this time of year, don’t forget about you, too!
You can still experience the joy of the season while also experiencing the best version of yourself by striving to maintain healthy habits during the holiday season. Remember the best gift you can yourself is the gift of health and wellness! Happy Holidays!
