How to maintain balance during the holidays
With the holiday season is rapidly approaching we all want to enjoy the holiday festivities, while juggling our regular responsibilities. Sometimes it seems that there just isn't enough time to fit everything into our schedules, and we put undo pressure on ourselves to attend every event, holiday gathering, concert, work party, etc. While we may want to cram as much into our calendar as possible, this is sometimes just not feasible without it making us feel overwhelmed, which can lead to stress, anxiety, and physical and emotional exhaustion.
Below are a few tips to help you keep some balance during the holiday season:
Prioritize sleep and self-care. Sleep is crucial to allow your mind and body to recharge, helping you to maintain a healthy weight, and even regulate your mood. It also helps keep your immune system strong. Set time aside to decompress and relax each day regardless of how busy things may seem. You cannot pour from an empty cup, so prioritizing rest and relaxation is crucial.
Be present. When your mind is in overdrive, it can cause unnecessary stress. Stay in the moment by practicing mindfulness. Take deep breaths throughout the day. Instead of obsessing about your “to-do” list for tomorrow, give your full attention to the present and the people around you. Make sure you embrace your senses, too. Enjoy the sound of crunching leaves under your feet, the smell of scented candles, the texture of warm sweaters and blankets. Quite literally, stop and smell the roses whenever possible.
Limit alcohol. All those celebratory holiday cocktails can quickly add unexpected sugar and calories into your diet. Alcohol can also interfere with your sleep and impact your mood. Opt for a “mocktail” or flavored water instead. Feeling left out by not joining the toast? Try water with a splash of cranberry and a lime. No one will know it’s alcohol free.
Stay physically active. It can be tempting to skip the gym when you are pressed for time. Maintain your regular exercise schedule and opt for shorter workouts with a little more intensity. You can also break your workout up throughout the day. Studies have shown that 3 - 10 minute walks have the equivalent health benefits as 1 - 30 minute walk. If you absolutely cannot make it to the gym, put on some holiday music and get dancing in your living room or while making dinner.
Take advantage of fresh seasonal foods. There are plenty of fruits and vegetables that peak in fall, so be sure to add those to the holiday menu and to fill up half of your holiday plate with them. Some healthy and delicious choices are Brussel sprouts, pumpkin, winter squash, sweet potatoes, cauliflower, carrots, celery, nuts, apple, clementines, and figs. Fueling your body the right way will give you the energy you need to enjoy all that the holiday season has to offer.
The holidays can be as stress-free, or stressful as you make them. When all else fails, just remember to breathe and know that even if things aren’t perfect, memories are still being made.
