5 Holistic Holiday Tips
With holiday preparations in full swing, it is easy to let our health practices slide. Between the stress of family gatherings, travel, and the temptation to over-indulge, we often find ourselves resting less and eating more. Gain some balance by making healthier choices and carving out some time to take care of yourself in the midst of all the hustle and bustle!
MAKE LISTS. Grocery lists! Gift lists! To-do lists! Menus! Timelines! All the lists. I often joke that I am the most organized I have ever been in my life during the week leading up to Thanksgiving. No matter how big or small your holiday plans are, keeping lists will help you accomplish more in less time, lower your stress levels and even keep you on budget. If you have a clear shopping list, you’re less likely to fill your cart with impulse purchases (also… never go shopping hungry!!)
TRY A NEW RECIPE. The holidays are a great time to show how much you care through food. Preparing a delicious meal or dish is a way to express creativity and thoughtfulness. Choosing healthier options for traditional holiday recipes brings a fresh spin and provides nourishment for all. Some easy swaps to make are: opt out of creamy casseroles and instead roast seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts or cauliflower with fresh herbs and avocado oil, use coconut sugar or maple syrup as a healthy alternative to white and brown cane sugar, and swap avocado for mayonnaise as a creamy, plant-based, healthy fat in pre-dinner dips. You can find my healthy holiday favorites here.
PUT A SALAD ON THE MENU. Thanksgiving dinner tends to be especially heavy and beige in tone. Add some color and nutrients to your holiday table with this salad packed with seasonal veggies and fruits, nuts, olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
EAT BREAKFAST. Resist the temptation to “save room” for the main event. Eating a nutritious breakfast rich in protein and healthy fats will give you energy for the day ahead and help regulate your metabolism so you are less likely to overeat later in the day. Bake these muffins or make a veggie-filled frittata or breakfast casserole for the whole family. If you’re traveling, enjoy a combination of hard-boiled eggs, jerky, raw nuts, and seasonal fruit or a smoothie on the go!
MAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF. Even during the season of giving… ESPECIALLY during this time, it is so important to commit to your self-care. In between the holiday parties, shopping, and cookie baking, pop in a few moments to catch your breath and refuel. Take a nap. Practice yoga. Schedule a pedicure or massage. Get yourself a gift. Meditate. Lock yourself in the bathroom and play Candy Crush in peace. Seriously… whatever it takes to keep you happy and healthy.
It is possible to care for ourselves - mind, body, and soul - during this time of year. However you celebrate, I wish you a happy, healthy and safe season.
