Sustaining Your Well-Being During the Holidays
It's December, and we are well in the midst of the holiday season. How is it going for you? The holidays are a time of celebration, but they can also present challenges. Aside from the family and financial challenges the holidays can bring up, many people experience food challenges. Often, these challenges go together! Here's a little bit of "food for thought" during your holiday season. Here's how to make the holidays easier on your mind, emotions, and body.
Let It Go Without Letting It All Go
It's very common during the holidays for people to say, "eh, it's the holiday season, so why not?" You can fill the rest of it in yourself. Many of us have said that phrase or something similar. The holidays are a time of celebration, so yes, why not let loose a little? Especially if you're someone who practices strict dietary restrictions, it may actually be healthy to let some of them go a few nights during this season. That is, unless you have an allergy or a health issue to be aware of!
On the other hand, letting it all go can be a detriment to your health. When we all of a sudden start letting all of our nutrition habits go for a couple of months and then expect to make a drastic change after January 1, this is not sustainable. Here are some tips on how to enjoy yourself during the holiday season without throwing in the towel completely and starting over at the new year.
- Plan ahead - look at the celebrations ahead and choose when you'll be more allowing for celebratory food and drinks.
- Set boundaries - Decide which habits you will not let go of, no matter what, and stick to it. For example, stick to gluten-free or dairy-free while allowing yourself to have other types of treats.
- Add fillers - Eat what you want, but add some good stuff to it. Throw some spinach on the top of your mashed potatoes or add salad to the side of your turkey dinner.
- Don't forget water - Especially if you're drinking alcohol, remember to drink plenty of water. Drinking plenty of water will help you avoid overeating and also will help you avoid a hangover.
Enjoy Yourself!
No matter what choices you make during this holiday season, be sure to enjoy yourself. Be easy on yourself. Even if you break one of your boundaries, be gracious with yourself. When we are gracious with ourselves, it is much easier to get back on track. Happy holidays!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Hixson, Tenn.