Your Healthy Holiday Checklist
By Brandi Goodman
The holidays bring about many unhealthy habits. Instead of giving into these temptations, learn how to have a healthier holiday season instead. Here's your healthy holiday checklist to help you out.
Keep Stress Levels Low
It's the holidays. Of course you're stressed out. There's so much to accomplish and so little time to do so. You really need to work to keep your stress levels low this time of year, though. Doing so can help ensure you're choosing healthier habits for yourself compared to unhealthy ones.
Stay Active
Too many people let exercise go out the window during the winter months. You may feel as though there's too much to get done already and it's fine to skip a few days -- or weeks -- and you'll just pick back up on the habit later. Exercise can actually boost your mental health, keep your stress levels low, and improve sleep. You should stay active throughout the season to maintain these benefits. You need them now more than ever.
Make Healthy Food Substitutes
Treats and feasts are common throughout the holiday season. You can still enjoy them. You just need to make some substitutes with healthy food options so you aren't overloading on calories, sugar, and sodium. Say you want some eggnog. This holiday drink is high in calories and fat. Instead of purchasing a half-gallon from the store, make your own. You can create a much healthier version in your own kitchen.
Give Health-Inspired Gifts
Don't fall into the habit of offering the latest trendy toys and gift items to your friends and family. You'll be more inspired to maintain your health if you're purchasing healthy gifts to watch them use. Items that encourage physical activity, games for the family to enjoy together, nutritious snacks, and similar offerings should be included in both presents and stockings.
Maintain Your Doctor Visits
Your health doesn't magically stay well during the holidays. You still need to maintain your doctor visits, get your vaccinations, and follow recommended treatment plans to keep yourself healthy. If you have one scheduled for sometime during the holiday season, don't cancel. Make sure you're still going to the doctor and following recommended plans so you can be extra sure of your well-being this time of year.
With this healthy holiday checklist in mind, you can be better prepared to maintain your well-being this season. It's easy to rely on unhealthy coping mechanisms to deal with stress, but doing so will only lead to worse problems. Do what you can to maintain your health and have a holiday season you can truly enjoy.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Mt. Pleasant, S.C.