The holidays are closing in on us, and remaining healthy during the holiday season can be a little bit of a challenge, especially this year. It's important you make healthy choices— like eating well, exercising, and getting your much needed sleep, during this holiday season. And, the holiday season can be stressful — maybe even more so this year. So, here are five tips you can try for a healthier holiday season.
- Mindful Eating
Because it’s the holidays, it's okay to indulge in some of your favorite food, right? But, preferably in moderation. Mindful eating doesn't necessarily mean you must avoid the foods you love entirely. It simply means practicing a little restraint.
Instead of giving up your favorite foods totally, try eating your food slower. Savor each bite, and allow yourself to take in the flavors, textures, and smells while you eat your food. That goes for sweets, too, which are in abundance, and particularly delectable, this time of year.
- Keep Moving
Often times, the holiday season becomes stressful and chaotic with things like:
- Lengthy to-do lists
- Work
- Shopping
- Plans with family
Among all this hectic chaos, it's simple to forget to incorporate physical activity until the holiday is said and done, and you're about to create your New Year's resolutions.
However, being physically active during the holiday season isn't as difficult as it might seem. There are many fun and festive activities you can do with the family to enjoy the holiday season, and get your body moving. Some include:
- Ice skating
- Navigating a corn maze
- Dancing
- Walking around the neighborhood looking at the lights
- Building a snowman
- Taking a hike
During busy times like these, staying physically active can keep your mindset positive.
- Reduce Alcohol Intake and Hydrate
During the holidays, many people like to indulge in alcohol. If you're going to drink alcohol, your best bet is to choose a lighter option like a light beer, a glass of wine, or a vodka with soda water, and limit your number of alcoholic drinks. Be sure you alternate your alcoholic drinks, however, with a glass of water. This will keep you hydrated, and help you avoid unwanted hangovers the next day.
- Manage Your Stress
During your holiday hustle and bustle, be sure you're finding a little quiet time to relax. Perhaps you could invest a couple of hours to sit down to a good movie, or a book. It can be a little tough finding time to relax during the holidays with everything going on, but even taking just 15 minutes out to practice yoga or a meditation with mindful breathing can help. Even taking a warm bath can help.
- Don't Skimp on Sleep
With all the prep work for the upcoming holidays, especially if you're traveling, sleep can often take a back seat. Some people find they're up until 1 or 2 in the morning doing last-minute packing, or baking the holiday cookies. This can leave you feeling exhausted.
That’s why it’s important to factor in time for quality sleep. Your body needs it. You'll be much more alert the next day, and daytime sleepiness won't hijack your holiday festivity excitement. One great way to really help ensure you get the quality sleep you need is by sleeping on a natural latex mattress from Latex For Less.
Make a deal with yourself before the holidays really start that you're going to take some time for yourself to ensure you're living healthy. Make the decision you're going to get the sleep you need, exercise, and eat healthy. Limit your alcohol consumption and sweets, and take time to relax to keep your stress levels down.
All of us here at Latex for Less wish you a happy and healthy holiday season!
