The holidays are among us – a wonderful time of year that has been known to cause stress in many people. After all, you likely have several invitations filling up your calendar, a long list of people you need to send holiday cards to, and the daunting task of braving the crowds at the mall in order to find the perfect gifts for your family and friends. All of this, on top of your normal everyday life can be overwhelming to say the least.
I want to share with you some of my personal favorite ways to navigate this busy, stressful time of year and make this season a lot more enjoyable, less stressful and a time you will remember with fond memories.
Some of my secret weapons include…
- Put forth great effort to be present. It can be difficult, I understand. It’s almost a reflex to pick up our phones and scroll through Facebook or check our email when we have a free moment – do you do the same? One way I like to avoid this is to leave my electronics in another room. Don’t even allow yourself the temptation to pick up your phone and disengage from communicating with your loved ones. When I’m feeling particularly scatter-brained, what really helps ground me is focusing on my senses. What do I smell? What do I hear? What do I feel? Stopping and thinking through what’s going on around you at that very moment really brings you into the present moment unlike anything else. It’s a wonderful tool to use to dial in and be present – and is a great tool to use year-round, not just during the holidays!
- Give up those expectations. A lot of the stress we put on ourselves this season lies in the notion that we expect things to be perfect. That’d be lovely, of course – but put your entire extended family in one house and something is bound to go awry. Therefore, dropping the expectations of perfection will allow you to be prepared for the unexpected. There is joy to be found in each situation, so even when things don’t go exactly as planned – spend your energy finding gratitude in your circumstances and enjoying as much of your time as you possibly can. Tis the season after all!
- Find time to move. It’s incredibly important to keep movement in your schedule, no matter how busy you may feel. Even if it’s just a brisk walk after lunch or dinner – make it a habit to bundle up to go for a walk alone (or better yet take your dog) to clear your mind, or go with someone you enjoy being around. Be sure that you are getting your time outside in nature, breathing in fresh air, while burning off some calories and keeping your heart rate up.
What are your favorite ways to get some movement in during the cold months?
I don’t love to go outdoors for a run when it’s cold outside. Instead, I love to get my cardio blast from my favorite spin classes. My dog Oakley loves this brisk, chilly weather so whenever possible I take him out and get us both some additional exercise.
Oakley is going to be 14 years old 12/19/16
If you are concerned about losing sight of your wellness goals during the holidays I would like to offer my FREE Holiday Survival Workshop. This program is a great way to help you stay mindful of the intentions you set for yourself before the crazy holiday season began.
And, in case you need to catch yourself after a big holiday meal or party, I have also included a 4-Day Detox which can be used during this holiday season or anytime. I have included some seasonal and easy to make healthy recipes to go along with the FREE Holiday Survival Workshop.
If you want to learn more about how you can successfully navigate the holiday season, click here.
Wishing you a Healthy, Happy and Joyous Holiday Season!
Yours In Good Health,
Debbie Janoff, CINHC, AADP
Wholey Fit Nutrition, LLC
www.wholeyfitnutrition.com
info@wholeyfitnutrition.com