A New Season is Just Around the Corner.

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. However, it can also be a time of indulgence, stress, and health challenges. With tempting treats and busy schedules, it's easy to let your health take a back seat during this festive period. Not to fear, in this blog post, we will explore ways to enjoy the holidays while still prioritizing your health and well-being.

1. Stay Active: Don't let the holiday hustle and bustle derail your exercise routine. Encourage your family and friends to join in on fun, active activities. Consider going for a brisk walk after a big meal, organizing a game of touch football, or participating in a local charity run or walk.

2. Healthy Eating: It's possible to enjoy holiday feasts without overindulging. Try to fill your plate with more vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Be mindful of portion sizes and savor every bite. Also, try to eat slowly to allow your body to recognize when you're full.

3. Plan Ahead: Planning your meals in advance can help you make healthier choices. If you're attending a holiday party, eat a small, balanced meal before you go. This can help you avoid overeating when you're surrounded by tempting treats.

4. Hydration: Don't forget to stay hydrated! Sometimes thirst can be mistaken for hunger. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep yourself feeling satisfied and to prevent overeating.

5. Mindful Indulgence: It's perfectly fine to enjoy your favorite holiday treats, but do so mindfully. Instead of mindlessly snacking, choose your favorites and savor each bite. You'll enjoy them more and likely eat less in the process.

6. Manage Stress: The holidays can be stressful with all the planning, shopping, and social gatherings. Make time for relaxation and self-care, whether that's through meditation, deep breathing, or a soothing bath. A calm mind can help you make better health choices.

7. Get Enough Sleep: Don't compromise your sleep schedule during the holidays. Lack of sleep can lead to overeating and poor food choices. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to stay energized and focused.

8. Family Activities: Encourage your family to engage in activities that promote health. Perhaps you can all take a scenic hike, play a group game, or have a friendly fitness competition. Family time can be both fun and healthy.

9. Volunteer and Give Back: The holidays are an excellent time to give back to your community. Volunteering for charitable activities can help you feel fulfilled and remind you of the true spirit of the season.

10. Seek Support: If you're struggling to stay healthy during the holidays, consider seeking support from a friend, family member, or a health professional. Having a support system in place can make a big difference in maintaining your health.

Good health provides a foundation for you to live the life you want with joy and energy. At TruBalance, our certified health coaches center your goals in your care to best support the changes you want to make. For a deep dive into the foundations of health, Dr. Traci Kiernan’s Lifestyle Mastery for Health educates you on the importance of sleep, nutrition, hydration, movement, and the connections between stress and health. This online course can inspire, educate, and equip you to make changes. For more healthy recipes and techniques for all seasons, Dr. Kiernan’s eCookBook Eating on Purpose is full of nutrition dense and delicious recipes as well.