By Caitlin Haines, Beachbody Health and Fitness Coach
The holidays really are the busiest time of year. For me, it’s also the most stressful time of year. I get so excited about cooking for Friendsgiving, shopping for the perfect stocking stuffers, and watching Elf as many times as possible that I often forget about keeping myself healthy. What’s the point in going to the ugly sweater party if you’re too sick to enjoy it?
As someone who loves all things wellness, helping others incorporate small changes to improve their lifestyle is important to me. I’ve made a list of 5 tips to help you stay on top of your game during this holiday season!
1. Prioritize alone time and self-care
Getting caught up in cooking, holiday shopping and socializing can take a toll on your mental and emotional health. It’s important to give yourself a break from other people. Set aside an hour each day to do something that you enjoy- baking bread from scratch, watching reruns of Friends, or maybe just take a nap. Whatever it is, this “me time” is important for you to relax, recharge and focus on yourself.
2. Find your hidden gym
Fitting a full on workout into everyday can be a challenge, especially during the holidays when there is already so much to do. It’s stressful just to think about! But exercise is exactly what you need to help fight off those stressors, clear your mind and bring more positivity into your day. Find small, simple ways to get moving. Contract your stomach muscles while you wait in traffic, do some calf raises while your food is heating in the microwave, take a walk with a friend on your lunch break, or have a 5 minute dance party while you brush your teeth! You’ll start to notice yourself feeling more energized by finding the hidden gym in your daily life.
3. Drink more peppermint tea
Staying hydrated becomes more necessary as dry skin, chapped lips, and those holiday headaches become more prominent around this time of year. If you’re looking for something more festive and soothing than plain water, try peppermint tea. Peppermint helps with digestion and bloating, unclogging sinuses, and it keeps your breath minty fresh. Not only will you feel better physically, the extra hydration will have you looking brighter too.
4. Eat this combo: protein + healthy fats + fiber
I am no stranger to overeating and overindulging in sugary, salty treats. However, it’s a lot harder to do that when I’m full. To make sure that you are getting great nutrition during the holidays while still being able to enjoy your favorite treats, fill your plate with lean proteins, fiber (from vegetables and whole grains) and healthy fats. This trio will help keep you fuller for longer and curb cravings. An example of this would be chicken with green beans cooked in olive oil or whole wheat toast with avocado,tomato and cheese.
5. Practice gratitude everyday (not just at Thanksgiving dinner)
I recently listened to a podcast that said “Gratitude is undentable joy. It’s an attitude, not based on circumstances”. What I took away from this was that there is something good in everyday that we can be grateful for. Noticing what you are grateful for forces you to focus on the positive. When I feel overwhelmed or stressed I slow down and list 3 things that I am thankful for. Almost instantly my mood is boosted and I feel more confident to take on the rest of my day. Making this a daily practice can help you be more optimistic and joyful in your everyday life. It can also help you put more attention on what really matters: family, friends, laughter and cheer.
With just a few strategies you can improve your overall health just in time for the holiday season!
Which one are you going to try?