Navigating the Holidays Healthfully
Holiday season is upon us! It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of festivities, delicious treats, and busy schedules. For most people, enjoying the season with friends, family, and food is a fun time of year that we look forward to. But it can also mean blowing up those health goals you have been working so hard on all year! Fear not! Elemental Wellness has your back with some tips to help you stay on track with your healthy living goals during this joyful time.
*Psst. Is this time of year maybe not so joyful for you? You are not alone and I understand that keeping on track with health goals can be even harder when loneliness and sadness creep in. Keep reading! There is some good stuff in here for you too.*
Plan Ahead, Feast Smart: The holiday table can be tempting and made of indulgent delights. Planning ahead is your secret weapon. Before heading to your gathering, try having a light, nutritious snack to curb hunger. That way you can make smart decisions lead from your brain and not your stomach.
Veggie Starters: It may be tempting to jump right into the party mix or sweets. They are so delicious after all! But they can really wreak havoc on your blood sugar. Starting off the meal with veggies is a powerful way to keep blood sugar stable and avoid glucose spikes and crashes….which lead to grumpy moods and craving. Crudité anyone?
Move and Groove: With the holiday hustle, finding time for exercise might seem challenging, but it’s more important than ever. Take a family walk, dance to some festive tunes, or squeeze in a quick workout. Physical activity not only helps with weight management but it is a fantastic stress-buster as well.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: With all the holiday cheer, don’t forget the power of water! Hydration is key to supporting digestion and keeping energy levels up. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you are enjoying a cut or two of festive beverages.
Savor the Sweet Moments: It’s not realistic to avoid all sweets and treats this time of year. And you should be able to indulge, guilt free, in a reasonable way. So choose wisely and take the time to truly savor what you eat. Eat it slowly and pay attention to each bite. That is the key to feeling satisfied with 1 serving instead of mindlessly eating 4 (What? I have never done that…)
Connect with Nature: The weather is turning colder for many of us and that can mean we start to hibernate indoors. But remembering to get outside and connect with nature is even more important than ever. Especially if this time of year is not your favorite. Get out for that morning walk, hike on the weekends, visit a botanical garden or greenhouse. There are lots of ways to connect and ground and find peace through the earth.
Know Thyself: Recognizing what triggers you to lose restraint during the holidays can help you plan and avoid them. Maybe it is arriving to a party hungry or turning to salty snacks when you’re stressed or lonely. Understanding where your challenge spots are allows you to plan for the inevitable.
Be in the Moment: The holidays are about more than just food. Focus on creating memorable moments with loved ones or all for yourself. Whether it’s a cozy night by the fireplace or a brisk winter walk in the snow, cherish the times. Be present in the moment. Slow down, feel your body and give thanks.
Remember, it’s all about balance, not perfection. Enjoy the holiday season, indulge mindfully, and celebrate the joy of good health. Here’s to a happy and healthy holiday season!
*Written with the assistance of AI
