The holiday season is a time of year that is meant to bring joyful moments through time spent with family and friends, fun holiday activities and delicious food. Navigating this time of year while also holding yourself to fitness or nutrition goals may seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be.
We thrive best when we are in a state of balance. When it comes to the holidays, it’s important to have a strategy, but also be flexible. After all, the holidays are meant to be enjoyed! Here are a few tips to help you feel your best this holiday season:
Stick to a regular routine: Movement is medicine! It’s something we should do to feel empowered and grounded, never something we must do to ‘earn’ a holiday meal. Get some exercise in that you enjoy, like taking a walk with the family.
Be proactive with water intake: Our bodies are made of up to 60% water. The body and mind feel best when hydrated. Drink up!
Bring a healthy side dish to the party: It is 100% okay to fit in your favorite foods. Choose things that look good to you. No food is on the “bad” list. Savor this time of year and enjoy the food and family members around you.
Don’t skip meals to ‘save up’ for the meal later: Prevent overeating and craving while managing your blood sugar by sticking to balanced meals throughout the day.
Implement forms of self-care: The holidays can be a joyous time, but also a stressful time. Be mindful of your stress levels and practice some self-care methods to get you through the season. You can’t pour from an empty cup, so take time to reenergize to be able to show up as your best self.
A healthy, balanced and flexible relationship with food and exercise = a healthy, presently lived life. One day with some extra comfort foods will not upset your progress, just like one salad will not immediately improve your health. This especially applies to this merry time of year. Happy Holidays!