Now that the holiday season is upon us, it is time to gather, socialize, and celebrate with our friends and our family. Unfortunately, it is also a time when overindulgence, the accumulation of extra pounds, and even sickness may occur.
It is not at all uncommon for individuals to abandon their healthy habits. This stems from a mixture of cold weather that keeps people indoors, the immense level of holiday parties and gatherings, and the wide variety of visually appealing and exceptionally unhealthy foods that find their way on the table.
It is essential that we remain committed to focusing on our health and learn some tricks to stay on tip top shape despite all the holiday temptations.
Focus on Connections
Chances are, you will be invited to many holiday celebrations this season. No doubt, there will be a wide assortment of main dishes, mouth-watering desserts, and indulgent beverages available that are pleasing to the taste buds but result in negative health consequences with the body.
Instead of focusing on these aspects of the social gatherings, place a focus on the connections with your relatives, friends, and coworkers.
The goal should be on cultivating your relationships and creating happy memories that may be enjoyed for years to come. By focusing on filling the heart and the mind, you will be less tempted to fill your stomach.
Eat in a Mindful Manner
The holidays bring out many of our favorite flavors…pumpkin, cherry, apple, cinnamon, spice. Naturally – if your health permits – it is acceptable to partake in the indulgence of these wonderful seasonal flavors, but when you eat, do so in a mindful manner.
That is, allow yourself to enjoy how the foods taste, the texture, the wonderful aromas. In doing so, you will find that you feel “full” much more quickly.
Additionally, when you are tempted to go for seconds, wait 10-15 minutes. This allows the body time to feel full. In taking these steps, you will find that you are satisfied more quickly and do not require additional helpings.
Increase Your Water Consumption
We all know the importance of staying hydrated. In fact, 60% of the weight of the body is water. It helps to keep our organs working properly, hydrates our cells, and helps in transporting nutrients throughout the body.
All that eggnog, fancy holiday alcoholic beverages, and carbonated beverages actually deplete the body of the water that it needs to work appropriately.
If you find that you absolutely must indulge in one of these types of drinks, combat the dehydrating effects by consuming 2 glasses of water afterwards. In doing so, you can rest assured that you are hydrated and your body has the fluid it needs to maintain and even optimize your health.
Boost Your Immune System
During the holiday season, a lot of sicknesses occur. These include allergies, colds, sinus infections, and even the dreaded flu. It is imperative that you place a focus on your health and take all steps necessary to provide a boost to your immune system.
Make certain you consume foods that have a lot of vitamin A and vitamin C. Opt for items that contain minerals such as zinc and selenium. Make certain that you get the proper amount of rest, go outdoors for fresh air and sunshine as much as possible, and reduce stress levels.
Your Wellness
Your general wellness – both physically and psychologically – should be your main focus this holiday season.
While it is easy to get sidetracked and focus more on door buster sales, wrapping gifts, and enjoying all of the other festivities associated with the season, if you do not take care of yourself now, you will regret it AND pay for it later.
For more strategies on staying healthy and/or to meet with a wellness expert, contact us today by calling: 706-738-7731