My Tips for Staying Healthy Over the Holidays
Don’t let the stress of trying to be perfectly on track with your health goals ruin your holidays! Remaining healthy amidst the season of social gatherings begins with breaking down core wellness pillars that will put your mind and body at peace and fuel your holiday cheer.
Before sitting down for your hearty Thanksgiving meal or joining in on the holiday festivities, here are some quick tips, tricks, advice, and healthy recipes to keep in mind (or take along) to your holiday parties.
Prioritizing Hydration and Sleep
Whether you are traveling or not, the holiday season can bring you out of your routine. The easiest habits to support your wellness goals during this time are remaining consistent in staying hydrated, prioritizing sleep, and keeping up with supplements (if you take any). Both sleep and drinking enough water are crucial for keeping sugar cravings at bay, reducing stress on the body and mind, warding off any illness, and keeping up with overall wellness. To maximize water absorption, try adding electrolytes to your water. They not only taste great but help your body rehydrate by carrying nutrients in and out of cells, supporting nerve and muscle function, and much more. Use this link to save money on the electrolytes I recommend.
Gratitude Practice
Remind yourself what you are grateful for. Regardless of where you are on your health journey, appreciate your body and mind and how they both carry and support you. Holidays serve as a great reminder to focus on what truly matters. Letting others know your appreciation for them will fill your cup even more than this delicious cranberry and rosemary spritzer.
Find Moments to Be by Yourself
The holidays can bring about many stressors and it can feel difficult to stay grounded. Taking time to step away and be by yourself is a great way to re-center and re-group. Think of it as your body clicking the reset button so you can be the most present for your loved ones.
Stay Present + Connected
Try spending the day technology-free if you are spending it with loved ones! Even if you are not spending the holidays with all of your friends and family, or you live far away from them all, make time to reach out through calling or Facetiming to remain connected.
Planning Ahead
Ever ask yourself before going to a party or event, “What am I going to eat there that is healthy and won’t make me feel like crap?” Create the least amount of stress for yourself by bringing a dish to pass that aligns with your goals that you know you and others will enjoy. You never know who you can inspire to live a healthier lifestyle when they try recipes that not only taste good but are good for you! Plus, bringing a delicious dish to pass will win you points with your host! Try this savory, dairy-free garlic mashed potato recipe—it is sure to be a hit!
Doing Workouts with Friends and Family
Cue the famous Turkey Trot… but even if you’re not a runner, there are easy and enjoyable ways to stay active with friends and family members alongside the celebration. There is no better way to show your body thanks and gratitude than doing a workout class (in-person or virtual), hiking on nearby trails, or walking around the neighborhood.
There are many benefits of walking such as reducing the risk of heart disease, reducing stress, losing weight, improving immune function, and protecting joints. As it turns out, walking, even for only ten minutes, after consuming a meal helps dramatically lower blood sugar and prevents blood glucose from spiking . Instead of opting for the couch after a big meal, walk it out!
Enjoy Yourself
Although I am a functional nutritionist and know how confusing the nutrition world can be, I focus on the whole-body approach to health. Even though what is on your plate contributes to overall wellness, all aspects of health need to be considered when it comes to living a hearty and healthy life. Above all, enjoy the holiday season and all of the merry it brings!