From gift shopping to cooking, parties, commitments, family squabbles, to winter weather, the holiday season can take a real toll on your mental and physical health. Here are a few tips to keep you healthy and on track, while still enjoying this festive time of year:
- Try to stay organized. Keep running lists for gifts that need purchasing, menu plans, and important events.
- Maintain your typical dietary plan as much as possible. Limit alcohol and be careful not to overindulge in rich or overly salty foods and sweets, especially ones that can leave you hungover, constipated or bloated.
- Stay hydrated. Try to continue drinking eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily. Remember that dehydration can make you feel tired and irritable and it can effect medication absorption and gut health.
- Keep up your typical exercise routine. Try to get in at least 30 minutes of activity daily. If you can't get out to a class, try an on-demand workout at home or dance in your living room to your favorite music. Yoga, stretching, meditating, and mindful breathing are also great ways to make your body feel good and reduce stress.
- Employ the help of family and friends to help you complete holiday errands and tasks. It's okay to delegate some of the things you've done traditionally in the past.
- Be kind to yourself. Know that it is okay to nicely decline a get together if you know you are overcommitted or feeling unwell. Let yourself take breaks and nap when needed.