Although the holidays are a wonderful opportunity to spend time with family and friends they can also be stressful, indulgent and exhausting. To find balance in the season it is important to continue to eat right, get plenty of rest, and exercise. Whether you are at home or on-the-go here are some tips to stay healthy and combat some of the exhausting holiday bustle.
– Plan ahead – If you know you will be out running errands all day, pack a lunch or snacks to include healthy fats, like nuts, and fresh fruit, apples and citrus are very portable, so you can avoid heavy, greasy food options. If you do need (or want) to grab food on the go consider fresh food options like sub sandwiches or burritos (Moe’s, Chipotle, and the like are some personal favorites) or swap out a baked potato and/or side salad for fries. I have also found that I love QuickTime and 7-11 convenience stores on the go because they offer a variety of fresh food options as well as yogurt and nuts.
– Take time for yourself – Whether is a massage (wink, wink), yoga class or a walk through your neighborhood try to take some time for yourself. This is a great opportunity to exercise and/or meditate. With so many demands on your time and budget it is important to find a time and place to take care of yourself, body and mind.
– Hydrate – The holidays can include lots of “beverages” that can dehydrate (check out this post for more information on the importance of hydration). To counteract the effects of caffeine and alcohol be sure to drink plenty of water. I find it helpful to keep a favorite cup or water bottle handle to fill with water and lemon or decaffeinated hot tea (my current favorite is Tangerine Orange Zinger).
These tips may seem simple, but when things get busy simple is best!
What are your best tips for maintaining you sanity during the holidays?
