It’s that time of year again! Don’t let the stress and temptations of the holiday season leave you frazzled!
I get it, the holidays can be stressful for many reasons. There’s not enough time to get everything done and the decadent temptations are everywhere! Try as you might you can’t seem to stay balanced and resit the urges. The key to staying healthy (and in control!) this time of year is preparation. When you’re prepared going in, you’re able to respond accordingly and avoid the anxiety and stress that can overwhelm you. So how do you do it? Follow these ten tips to keep your mind, and body, as healthy as possible. You’ll float through the season with ease!
- Food Temptations – you’re better than this! You don’t have to succumb to sweet treats and heavy carbs. Remember to eat something before you go out to ward off hunger and minimize bad decisions. Go for the protein- this will create satiety and is usually the least-processed option on the table. It’s also a good idea to bring a healthy food option with you. A big salad to share is always welcomed.
- Forgo the bread – Full of simple carbs and void of nutrients, bread is really just junk-food in disguise. If this is the only thing you do, you’ll be a step ahead of everyone else around you!
- Have healthy snacks on hand – You may find yourself in a ‘no-healthy-options’ situation, be prepared with a few snack so you don’t give in. Good options to keep in your bag include cut up apples, carrots, celery, grass-fed jerky, hard-boiled eggs, and nuts.
- Drinks – keep alcohol to a minimum, or avoid altogether. Set your intention and stick to it, don’t allow yourself excuses. You’ll save yourself calories, sugar, embarrassing behaviors, and hangovers!
- Stay hydrated – you know this, but do you do it? Fill up your water bottle at least twice a day and add a little flavor if you need it. My favorite flavor hack: Calm Magnesium. It tastes delicious and gives you the much needed mineral, magnesium, to combat your holiday stress! Get Calm Magnesium here for 15% off.
- Exercise – this might seem obvious, but finding the RIGHT exercise for YOU is critical here. Not everyone should be doing Crossfit everyday. You need to choose the right type of exercise for your particular situation. Mix it up with cardio, strength training, and yoga or flexibility throughout the week.
- Manage Stress – Stress happens, especially this time of year! Instead of turning to alcohol or Facebook, try some stress relieving techniques like meditation, tai chi, yoga, or deep breathing. I’m a big fan of the app headspace. Their free,10-minute guided meditations never fail. If you’ve only got a minute or two, try this deep breathing exercise by Dr. Weil- quick, easy and powerful!
- Get outside – Even if the weather is a bit chilly, getting fresh air and sun exposure throughout the day is one of the best stress relievers available. Morning exposure is particularly good for deep restful sleep and to train your circadian rhythm. Get outside as often as you can and get sunlight on your eyes!
- Sleep – don’t underestimate the power of sleep! This may be the most important tip of all. Sleep is when the body repairs and prepares for the next day. Do your best to go to bed and get up at the same time each day. Keeping your circadian rhythm in sync goes a long way in helping you feel your best.
- Have fun – do your best and then don’t stress! No one’s perfect. You’ll succumb to stress here and there and maybe a few indulgences. It’s ok, your human! Don’t beat yourself up about it. Instead, try to do better next time and simply enjoy the moment. Cherish the time you get to spend with your loved ones. This is after all, the ‘reason for the season’!
Do you have a special practice or technique that helps you during the holidays? Let’s continue the conversation over on our Facebook page! As always, don’t hesitate to contact us if you need more guided help in getting your health back on track, or just maintaining your health during the holidays. We’d love to hear from you!
Cathy Cooke, BCHN, BBEC Holistic Nutritionist and Building Biologist is the founder of Whole Home and Body Health which provides EMF Assessments, Mold Testing, and Nutrition and Health Consulting located in Boise, Idaho. Cathy is available for consulting via skype and phone, and is also willing to travel as needed for home assessments. Schedule an appointment today!