anyone else out there feel this intense pressure to “enjoy” the holidays? i know i do. and i also know that it can mean something different to everyone. you might be indulging in more treats than you normally do, foregoing sleep, or just find yourself being more social (whether forced or welcomed) than usual. i’m not perfect by any means, but in the past few years, i’ve honed in on a few things that help me to stay healthy, both physically and mentally, during this extremely fun (yet sometimes stressful) time of year.
take time for yourself
it’s SO hard, especially if you have kids. it’s the time of year where we over-commit, wanting to see everyone and not wanting to miss a thing. layer on top of that all of the things you “should” do [cutting down a tree! going to see christmas lights! ice skating!], and you’re burnt out before you are started. make sure you are taking time for yourself, even if it’s just going grocery shopping alone. find little pockets in your day and be really intentional about taking that time to just check in with yourself (i know, i feel real granola saying that, but it’s legit)
get a workout in
you know i’m a proponent of physical movement, and this time of year is more important of ever. i take 30 minutes in the morning, but fit it wherever you can in your day. other reasons i love getting a workout in? a lot of us have new year’s resolutions that have to do with health, so why not get a jump start? i also feel like i make better decisions for myself when i’ve started my day with a sweat sesh.
eat your veggies
i am the first to indulge in christmas treats [or treats any time of the year, really], and i think that’s important, but i also balance it [what an annoying word, right? “balance” – so unobtainable] with increased veggie intake. i figure, it can’t hurt, and it will help crowd out more of the bad stuff so i’m really prioritizing getting them in. i also swear that they help me stay healthy when e v e r y germ around hits my house, so that’s a win. increased fiber intake, vitamins and minerals, and balancing out all of the cookies and reeses trees – what’s not to love?!
dress the part
it can get mega-dreary in minnesota, where it’s only light for, like, 2.5 hours a day (not really, but sometimes it feels like it). i find i like to brighten my day through adding some subtle holiday festive-ness. this year, i started the #mynorthstyle challenge: wear something festive and fun [green, red, gold, sparkly, plaid, sherpa, etc. – anything that makes you feel extra fancy!].
hydrate
this is your friendly reminder to drink your water. drink more than you think you need – we are all a little dehydrated.
there you have it! simple, easy tips to keep you healthy and happy during the craziest, most hectic, most magical time of the year.
