3 Strategies for a Healthy & Happy Holiday Season

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Do you look forward to the holiday season every year only to be reminded of the stress, exhaustion, and derailment this time of year can often bring? Before things become hectic, make a commitment to your health by following these 3 simple strategies:

 

Make a Plan
Planning can help you stick with your goals and start the new year off on the right foot to avoid playing catch-up on your resolution. First, you must choose your goal or main focus for the season. Is it to stay active? Maintain your weight? Stress Less? Whether you’ve already been working on a goal or are just starting, it is important to set a concrete, realistic goal. Once you’ve pinpointed what the overall goal is, make a plan on how you’re going to achieve that.

For example: If your goal is to stay active, figure out how you’re going to make it a priority. With the demands on the season pulling us in every direction, it is easy to skip workouts. Start by figuring out what is going to make you stay accountable (tips: schedule workout sessions, recruit a friend, sign up for a holiday challenge, find more time-efficient workouts, etc). If you’re not sure where to start, schedule a session with a Certified Health and Wellness Coach would be a great choice!  

 

Avoid the Blues
The holidays are supposed to be the happiest time of the year, yet for many, they trigger deep feelings of sadness and anxiety. From family dynamics and missing loved ones to the financial pressure of gifts, not to mention the unpredictable North Dakota weather and lack of sunlight – all can be prime conditions for a world-class funk.

Combat the holiday blues by:

  • Exercising – which releases endorphins, the body’s natural “feel-good” hormones
  • Socializing – isolating yourself, however tempting, often only feeds a depressed mood. Surrounding yourself with close friends, even if you don’t feel like it, provides you with opportunities for pleasure and joy.
  • Volunteering – giving back is an opportunity to redirect your focus in a positive, and often rewarding, manner.
  • Limiting social media – as the saying goes “comparison is the thief of all joy.”

Prevent illness and injury
You’ve made a well-thought out plan and things are humming right along – don’t let the sniffles, flu, or preventable accident bring you down! The holiday season is prime time for colds and flu. Prevent them by washing your hands regularly and urging others to do the same. Sprinkle sand on icy patches and use caution when driving in adverse weather conditions.

Investing a little time and effort into your own health and happiness will help ensure a merry & bright holiday season! If you need help on where to start, contact Lindsey at 701.751.2974 or schedule a complimentary consult.