Staying healthy during the holidays is no easy feat. Between the cornucopia of food temptations, the stress that comes with ticking all of the things off of your to-do list and everything else that comes with this time of the year, it is easy to put your health and wellness on the back burner. Fortunately, there are things that you can do every day to ensure that you make your health a priority. Here are eight tips to help you to enjoy a happy and healthy holiday season.
Catch Those ZZZs
There is no substitute for a good night’s sleep when it comes to your health. Getting plenty of sleep each night will help to power you through this crazy time of the year. Most adults need an average of eight hours of sleep per night for optimal health and wellness.
While it may be tempting to skimp on those zzz’s to get more done, you are better served to let some items fall off of your list and get that shuteye instead. Sticking to your regular sleep routine as much as possible will help you to stay healthy through the holidays and into the new year.
Nourish Your Body
You cannot expect to enjoy health this season if you are not nourishing your body with the right foods. While nobody will begrudge you for wanting to indulge in grandma’s favorite sugar cookies or a glass of creamy eggnog, you need to balance these treats with nutritious foods. In addition to those holiday treats, focus on consuming plenty of whole foods with an emphasis on fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.
Take it Outside
Do not let the arrival of winter keep you from getting outside. Plenty of fresh air will do wonders for your overall health during this time of the year. Even in cold temperatures, the dose of vitamin D that comes from the sun will boost your immunity. In addition, sufficient vitamin D stores will help to stave off seasonal depression so that you naturally feel better emotionally.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is a key cornerstone for a healthy holiday season. Drinking plenty of water will nourish dry skin and keep all of your body systems working at optimal levels. Drinking a big glass of water before a meal will also help you to avoid overeating.
Being intentional about hydration is particularly important if you are indulging in a greater than average amount of alcoholic beverages as you take on the holiday party circuit. A good tip to follow is to drink a big glass of water as soon as you wake up each morning.
Keep Moving
Some people make the mistake of giving up on their fitness routine entirely during the busy holiday season. Even if it is too difficult to stick with your regular exercise routine during this time of the year, it is important to remember that every little bit counts.
Maybe you cannot make your regularly scheduled Zumba class after work but you can sneak in a quick walk during your lunch break? Exercise is not an all-or-nothing proposition. Even a one mile walk around the block will help to reduce stress and boost your energy levels when you need it the most.
Practice Good Personal Hygiene
It has never been more important to practice good personal hygiene. Taking care to wash your hands frequently throughout the day can have a profound effect on your overall health this winter. Be sure to use plenty of warm soap and water. Not only do you need to practice good personal hygiene to reduce your chances of contracting COVID-19, but you also need to remember that it is still flu and cold season.
Manage Stress for a Healthy Holiday
You are not alone if you feel especially stressed during the holidays. Between all of the extra obligations, financial worries and everything else that comes with the season, it is easy to become stressed and overwhelmed.
Taking active steps to manage this stress is essential for good health. Making an effort to spend time with friends and family and diving into self-care practices can both help to manage the stress that often accompanies this season.
Lean on Supplements
Even with the best of intentions, some people fall short of getting all of the nutrients that they need to make it through the season with good health. A targeted supplement plan can serve as insurance that your body does not miss any key nutrients. There are a number of available supplements that you can use to target your specific health needs based on your age, gender, lifestyle and existing medical needs.