10 Ways to Stay Healthy Through the Holiday Season and Into the New Year

When it comes to our physical and mental health, we tend to let it all slip while we simply try to survive the holidays. While maintaining your regular routines may be out of the question in the midst of family gatherings and stressful shopping, there are some small things that you can do to make sure that you are still whole at the end of the Holy night!

 

1. Take it easy

It may be the last thing we think we have time for in all the hustle and bustle, but try to give your mind and body grace as you navigate through the holiday season. Take notes from nature and allow yourself time to rest and recover. Recently I visited Joy and Vitality Centre and spent 40 minutes in their Salt Cave. It was a wonderful way to relax, unwind and rejuvenate!

  

2. Stick to a sleep schedule

Our regular routines are usually the first to go when this time of year sneaks up, but your sleeping schedule should remain a priority. Getting enough sleep will make sure our bodies can still function, rest, and digest properly in the new year!

 

3. Don’t forget your supplements

Try setting them out in plain sight during this busy season because our supplements become even more important in times when our diets waver a bit.

 

4. Add fruit to your plate

On that note, the diets we typically end up taking on over the holiday season can really add up to some trouble. Whether it be digestive, skin, or mood changes, heavy holiday foods take a toll. Try adding extra fruits to your day to help you strike a better balance!

5. Stay active

As hard as it is to forgo the big blankets, staying physically active in winter can help us fight seasonal depression and keep holiday foods from weighing down our new year. Consider taking a hot yoga class at your local studio to stay toasty and toned throughout the holidays. I live in Calgary and Breathe Hot Yoga is my " Go To " studio. My husband and I try and go together a few times over the holidays!

 

6. Be mindful of your drinking

If your holiday gatherings tend to include alcoholic beverages, having more than a few to attend in one month can really send your sobriety spinning. Being mindful of your consumption and adding in plenty of water can keep you away from that holiday hangover. Or try a mocktail. I have been enjoying WildFolk - Free spirited Botanical Cocktails lately. So delicious and made right here in Calgary!

 

7. Make time for you

We’re often so focused on giving at this time of year that we forget we need to also refuel that energy. Light some candles, draw a bath, and add in restorative essential oils to make sure you keep some Christmas magic for yourself too!

 

8. Protect your immune system

They’re called ‘colds’ for a reason… they always pop up this time of year. Protect your immune system and give yourself a fighting chance by adding immunity boosting essential oils like eucalyptus and peppermint to your diffuser or bath and some licorice tea in the mornings!

 

9. Practice Gratitude

Having an attitude of gratitude is consistently associated with greater happiness. How about making a list of things you have instead of things you want. Try a gratitude meditation and reflect on the blessings in your life.