The holidays are here…the time of year most of our healthy habits tend to slide off track.
I’m all about enjoying holiday goodies. However, overeating, eating poorly and drinking can impact your mood, sleep, immune system and really put a damper on your holiday spirit!
Today I’m going to share some tips on how to enjoy the holidays while prioritizing your health!
Eat Mindfully
Eat until you’re satisfied, not stuffed! Chew thoroughly and don’t rush your meals. Focus on how the food makes you feel and stop eating when you’re full.
Manage Stress
Keep a positive attitude! Accept that there are events in your life you cannot control. Consider practicing yoga and/or meditation, and don’t let the holidays overwhelm you – do your best to relax and enjoy them!
Watch Your Alcohol Intake
It’s easy to get carried away when in a celebratory mood, but keep moderation in mind. Drink water in between cocktails and use low calorie mixers, like tonic water with a lemon or lime.
Limit Sugar
Fun festivities offer plenty of tempting treats – decide ahead of time what indulgences you’ll allow yourself. When faced with temptation, you’ll have decided beforehand what treats you’ll eat. You can also set a goal to have a “no sugar day” – this will help you reset and stay focused on your normal healthy lifestyle.
Exercise
Exercise is often one of the first things people neglect during busy and stressful times, but so important for our health. Even if you can’t get a full workout in, try to squeeze in a 10 minute walk on your lunch hour or go for a quick jog after work.
Prioritize your sleep
Lack of adequate sleep can have negative effects on your immune system, and may also increase your risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart and blood vessel (cardiovascular) disease if it goes on too long. It’s easy to sacrifice sleep to get all the items checked off of our to-do list, especially the longer than usual holiday check lists! Nonetheless, adults should aim to get a minimum of seven hours of sleep each night.
Staying on track with your healthy habits will give you balance and keep you feeling good long after the holidays are over.
Wishing you a happy, healthy holiday!
