The holiday season is one which should be full of fun and festivities and love and light. But for many people, it can also be a source of stress and may even trigger all sorts of emotions, including emotional eating and cravings for unhealthy foods and other behavior.
If you can take some time for yourself and think about your self-care as a priority this season you can set yourself up for a successful holiday and you will be able to enjoy your family, friends and loved ones even more.
Make some time for yourself- Which activities are most important to you? There are going to be obligations and activities which will have to take priority, but try to figure out if there are some events you are able to say “no” to. If you can avoid feeling pressured into saying “yes” all the time you won’t feel pulled in so many directions.
I have found that this Holiday Survival List will empower you to feel in control during a time of year when it’s so easy to feel like you’re spiraling.
Eating– Focus on eating mostly clean, whole foods and try to follow the 80:20 Philosophy so that you will eat the healthiest foods most of the time and then be able to enjoy the parties and some of your favorite treats. One or 2 parties aren’t going to derail your goals but if you aren’t mindful and paying attention you can spiral out of control during this time of year.
My best tip: Keep a Food & Mood Journal. If you don’t already, then start one because keeping track of your food is going to keep you focused and you will be more likely to catch yourself and get back on track.
Stay Hydrated – Drinking water is good for your body and good for your mind as well. Did you know that often when we get headaches it is because we are dehydrated? Drinking water can help with cravings and sometimes when we think we are hungry it is actually water that we need. If you make it your goal to drink 2 liters of water each day you will keep your body hydrated and healthy. Oh, did I mention that your skin needs water to stay younger looking too??
My best tip: Drink a glass of water (or 2) before you leave your bathroom in the morning. Then drink a glass before every meal. Warm water with lemon first thing is great to get your lymphatic system going and counts towards your water intake also.
Keep your body and mind energized and stimulated by exercising, especially this season. Exercising gives you an “endorphin high”, making you feel great. Did you know that exercising during cold weather actually burns more calories because it takes energy to keep the body warm?
My best tip: Try to work out at least 3 times per week and don’t forget to add some yoga or stretching to avoid injury and keep your body lengthened and lean.
Get enough rest– Travel, late night parties and over-eating all can interfere with your normal sleep pattern. You need to make sleep a priority, even if that means you should try to take an energizing nap when possible. Staying well rested means you are more likely to appreciate the holiday and deal with some of the inevitable mishaps with a more rational and clearer head.
My best tip: Try your best to get at least 7 hours sleep as a rule and if you can catch up by sleeping in a little after a late night. If you are finding it hard to relax and get to sleep try rubbing some lavender essential oil on the soles of your feet. You’ll be hooked!
Gratitude- This holiday it is especially important to be grateful for what we have, our families and friends, and especially our health. Material things may play a larger role at this time of year, especially with children around. Perhaps it’s a good opportunity to count your blessings and recognize those less fortunate or who may be ill.
My best tip: Speak with your children, using the appropriate language for their age, and share with them the value of helping others. Setting an example for our kids that demonstrates kindness to others is a great way to have them feel grateful for what they have.
