You’ll be healthier, both mentally and physically.
Story by Judy Goppert
This time of the year is truly different for each of us. Some relish decorating for the holidays before Thanksgiving, while others wait until the night before! Any way you slice it, it is a time when we need to be mindful of our own well-being, which begins in our thought process and lifestyle. Remember in the back of your mind that not all family gatherings look like a Norman Rockwell painting or are Pinterest perfect! Don’t try to compare, especially on social media. That is a sure way to feel less than yourself.
Make a journal of your thoughts and feelings and share it with loved ones. You can all talk about what the best things about the holidays are for each of you. You may love making candy and goodies for neighbors and friends, while another may take the job of stringing holiday lights as a challenge!
Be mindful that try as you might, you will indulge in deliciousness that is not at your fingertips any other time of year. The breakfast casserole your grandmother makes, the sausage balls that were your mom’s recipe, the eggnog, the mulled wine or whatever libation you partake. It’s all good, just remember that you can do little things to stay fit.
Some good tips include a simple walk after Thanksgiving instead of a nap, or a quick catch football game in the backyard. Football games are a staple of Thanksgiving and Christmas, so as you watch, do some yoga or weights. A brisk, 30-minute walk three times a week can help keep you on track. Invite your family along, which is a memorable way to share quality time during the holidays.
Stay hydrated, with water. Staying hydrated is important because your body can mistake thirst for hunger, which equals overeating. That six to eight eight-ounce glasses of water each day helps, and if you’re going to a big meal, drink a couple glasses of water before, so you ward off that overeating of the fudge on the side table. This is all part of planning ahead, which could mean eating fruit and vegetables and lean proteins the week before. Watch portion sizes and enjoy every bite by eating slowly. Try not to sit in one place near the buffet, but engage with those at the gathering.
We all know we need to sleep and different parties, too much food and drink, family squabbles and financial concerns rear their ugly heads around now. Take control of what you can and try medication, soothing breathing as you try to sleep and remember, this too shall pass.
Don’t expect to completely give up all holiday indulgences and workout every day for hours. That sets you up for failure and can be just as bad as indulging and packing on the holiday pounds. Be kind to yourself and strike a balance that works for you and brings you joy.
Practice self-care. Go get that mani pedi with your best friend, buy a new purse, or take a day trip. Pat yourself on the back when you achieve anything. When you hung the ornaments, you didn’t cry. When you made cookies, you didn’t eat all of them. Or you walked your dog and met a new neighbor!
Remember, when you think about fitness for the holidays, anything is better than nothing.
Try saying no to a few of the holiday parties and make lists of what each family member needs to do so it is not all on your plate. Another tip is to plan spending. Write down each item you are ordering online or picking up in the store, for Aunt Karen, your niece Laura, your mom…and so on. I do that and look back at what I gave everyone each year and it makes me smile. Spending money on loved ones is important but it’s also important to pay your electric bill!
Create your own zin space by turning on music, lighting candles and opening windows on a warm day. Listening to music and the scent of citrus can boost feelings of well being and vitamin D is a happiness booster. Also, if you don’t want to listen to Christmas carols 24/7, don’t!
Read a book. Turning the pages and focusing on what is written can be a nice escape. The Keeper of Stars by Buck Turner is a sweet love story that will evoke emotion. Sometimes, reading a favorite book again is like visiting an old friend, think Where the Crawdads Sing!
An elephant in all family rooms is the missing chair at the table. The loss of the person who made the holidays special can weigh heavy. Many family members have different viewpoints than your own, so try to forgive and forget this holiday season. Focus on what makes you alike and share feelings.
You are only one person, and you can only do so much. Relax and enjoy the company around you. Whatever your beliefs may be, this time of year is meant to be fun and an enjoyable time with friends and family. When stress starts in, maybe take note of some of these tips.
A personal favorite of mine is seeing KC Rep’s, A Christmas Carol, and gazing at the Plaza lights. Let the warmth of holidays in Kansas City flow over you. “God bless us everyone!”
