The festive season has finally arrived! We are now in that part of the year where you get a free pass to overindulge in all things chocolate, cheese, mulled wine, and so much more! And while it’s a season filled with so much fun, laughter, and joy with family and friends, it can also be overwhelming. With busy schedules that can feel chaotic, endless Christmas parties and festive get-togethers, and the almost certain weight gain from all those delicious extra calories, how can we keep our minds and bodies healthy and happy throughout December?
Show Yourself Some Self-Compassion
Being kind to yourself at this time of the year is crucial to keeping your mind at peace. The way you talk to yourself directly affects how you feel about yourself, so try and avoid negative self-talk, particularly after you’ve over indulged and feel the food guilt creeping in. Speak kindly about your body – it’s your home and it’s amazing!
Try to Avoid the All-or-Nothing Mentality
Slacking off on all your normal habits and replacing them with eating and drinking everything in sight for a month will leave you feeling lost and not so good. So, try to find a balance by keeping up with the things that usually make you feel good. This could be meditation or even exercise routines. Health is wealth, so balance Christmas and end-of-year parties with lighter, more nutritious meals the next day.
Eat More Mindfully
Food is always there to be enjoyed, and while you’re going to be eating more of it this season, be mindful of what you are eating. Also, check in with your hunger cues and fullness to help manage your satisfaction and the urge to reach for more when you’re actually full. Getting your brain to connect with your stomach will help with not going overboard and stuffing yourself silly.
Stay Active
This doesn’t mean that you need to do cardio every day, but get more steps in. Go outside for walks – the fresh air and oxygen will leave you feeling good and contribute to increased wellness! Keep in mind, though, that you need to move in a way that feels good for you, not from a place of punishing your body to burn off last night’s overindulgences.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
This is probably the easiest hack to keep your body functioning well. Our bodies are made of 45-65% water, so keeping our hydration up is very important for our well-being.
Be Present (No Pun Intended)
Focus on enjoying every second you have with the people you love and be sure to fully take in all the merriness of the festive season. Being in the moment is what makes for ultimate happiness in life!
