Tips to stay healthy this holiday season
Between cookies and parties, seasonal colds and the flu, and busier-than-ever schedules, holidays aren’t always synonymous with healthy days.
“There are so many expectations during the holidays, many that we put on ourselves, and it is so easy to get run down, frustrated and overwhelmed,” said Dr. Jewelia Wagner. “You don’t have to get up every day at 5 a.m. and exercise for two hours or bake every type of cookie in the cookbook. Sometimes staying healthy means doing less, and sometimes it means doing something special for yourself. It’s all about finding the balance that works for you.”
If you are starting to feel a little ho-hum or bah-humbug, the following tips can make your holidays a little brighter and a lot healthier:
- Practice imperfection: Remember, life isn’t perfect and neither are you – and that’s ok. Spend more time on “good” and less on “should,” focusing on the things that matter the most to you. If you try to be perfect throughout the holiday season, you will likely set yourself up for disappointment.
- Pay attention: Are you overtired? Noticing a scratchy throat or excessive irritability? If you detect the signs of fatigue, illness and being run down before they wreak havoc with your schedule and your health, you are more likely to take the small steps to bring your life back in order. Go to bed early. Update your plans. And take care of yourself.
- Keep moving. Some days it’s just one foot in front of the other, and some days you have the time to walk three or four miles. Exercise boosts health and feelings of happiness. Even if you only have 20 minutes, you can do your body and mind good.
- Choose “cheers” over jeers. Make a toast to someone you love. Celebrate with those who are special to you. Choose to focus on the positive even when it’s difficult. By making affirming rituals and intentions, you will strengthen your relationships and your resolve.
“Whenever I’m tempted to skip a workout for several days in a row, stay up way too late or overindulge, I remind myself how good being healthy feels,” Dr. Wagner added.
