We’re in full holiday swing here and it’s pretty ironic that as I write this, I’ve been battling a cold these last few days. It feels like I’m on the tail end of it, so hopefully I’ll be better in no time! It’s a good reminder that I have to slow down after a few busy weeks, and that’s why I’m sharing some healthy holidays tips today!
I have a bad tendency to overcommit myself (comment below if you do the same!), and I end up way too busy and with no time to myself! A few years ago, when I was still juggling a full class load at university with a full-time job, I learned the hard way that you need to take care of yourself. For months, I was either working or in class, and during my spare time, I was doing homework. I ended up with bronchitis followed by mono, and on bed rest for over two weeks. I remember doing nothing but sleeping because I had no energy to get up. All I could eat was ice cream (my mom would bring me Haagen Dazs!), but I would cry because it hurt so bad to swallow! Needless to say, that was a lesson learned the hard way!
If you’re feeling under the weather, take it easy! It’s not worth pushing yourself to the breaking point and getting sick! The holidays are a prime time for overcommitment and overwhelm with all the hustle and bustle going on. It’s easy to say yes to one too many activities or festivities and suddenly your schedule is packed. It’s so important to relax and take care of yourself around the holidays so you can start the new year off on a high note! That’s why I’m sharing five tips that have helped me have a healthy holidays!
1. Keep up with your exercise routine
Try your best to stick with your regular exercise schedule! Even just a little movement or sweating can make you feel awesome! Make the extra effort to fit that workout in – you won’t regret it. And on the same note, if the occasional event causes you to miss your workout one day (or for a few days) – that’s okay! The holidays are all about kindness, and that means to yourself as well 😉
2. Choose your indulgences – but enjoy them!
Healthy holidays I believe are all about moderation! I’m not going to say don’t eat any cookies, cakes, or sweet treats – haha since I have cookies baking in the oven as we speak 😛 But really enjoy them! Don’t scarf down any sweets you can get your hands on, and if there isn’t something that you really love, just don’t eat it. Pick the desserts that are your favourite (have you tried my Red Velvet Holiday Cheesecake?!), and take the time to slow down and enjoy every bite! It’ll make it taste that much better!
3. Don’t forget “me” time
Amidst all the family time, Christmas parties, and holiday outings, it’s easy to forget about yourself. Trust me I know, I’ve done it! Schedule in time to cozy up and read a book, have a bath, or even go for a walk in the snow – some time to just be with yourself and quietly enjoy this time of year. It’ll help you to truly enjoy those crazy moments surrounded by family and friends, and you won’t feel so overwhelmed!
4. Wash your hands, bundle up outside, and stay home if you are sick
Eat your greens, take your vitamins, sneeze/cough into your elbow – do all the things we learned as kids! This is flu and cold season, so germs are flying around and you have to protect yourself as best you can. Keep those germs at bay, and if you do fall prey to them, stay home and rest. Don’t keep spreading the germs! 😉 No one wants to spend Christmas sick – that’s no fun, so please be careful and take care of yourself!
5. Cherish time with family and friends
Most important of all, enjoy this time of year! Relax, laugh, have fun, be silly! When we’re not at all stressed out, our immune systems can work their best, so take advantage of that. These days, with all the craziness, it can be tough to find that special time where you have the whole family together. Don’t take it for granted! Cherish your holidays with the grandparents, the aunts and uncles you don’t get to see often, and even mom and dad who you may talk to every day!
There you go! Those are my best tips for a healthy holidays, and staying in top shape health-wise as you finish off the year! 🙂 I hope you’re all having an amazing holiday season, and getting out and enjoying all the good cheer! Want to make sure you don’t miss any upcoming posts (like this fun New Year’s resolutions post I’m working on right now)? Sign up for my newsletter over on the right sidebar under “Subscribe”!
How do you stay healthy this time of year? Do you have any other tips? I’d love to hear them!
XO
Danielle