By Senior Coach Christina
Approximate Reading Time: 2-4 min
The holiday season can be a stressful time. Whether you’re dealing with family or mingling at work holiday parties, here are some strategies to reduce stress and bring a calm and attentive approach to your holiday this year.
Movement
It's hard enough to exercise throughout the year. Add holidays to the mix and many of us find exercise becomes less of a priority as we get caught up in the busyness of Christmas. The last thing you want is more stress and, for many of us, trying to keep to our usual workout program does just that. At the same time, staying active in some way will give you energy, reduce stress and tension and, of course, help mitigate some of the extra calories you may be eating.
Walk! Try to walk as much as possible. Take the dog for a walk, get the family out walking with you, take extra laps around the mall if you’re out shopping.
Take the family ice skating, snowshoeing, skiing or sledding. Enjoy some snowy activities!
Go for a hike! Instead of sitting around watching TV, get the family out for a hike. Connect with nature!
Plan a few whole body workouts that you can do at home. Get the family involved. See who can do the most push-ups, hold the longest plank or who can complete the most squats in 60 seconds. Play tag, toss a ball around. Make it fun and playful!
Festive Drinks & Treats
Maybe you’d like to indulge in a few cocktails over the holidays. Go for it! Enjoy! Just remember to stay hydrated with lots of water in between drinks and choose less sugary cocktails.
Alcoholic drinks can be packed with sugar and unnecessary calories so be mindful with your choice. Try this festive Rosemary Fizz, guilt free drink:
3 sprigs rosemary
1 small lemon, juiced
1/2 teaspoon honey
1 1/2 ounces gin (optional)
3 ounces club soda
Directions: In a small drinking glass, muddle the fresh rosemary, lemon juice, and honey. Fill the glass with ice, then pour with gin and top with club soda.
Enjoy a few holiday treats without negative self judgement! It is not realistic or sustainable to never allow yourself treats. So enjoy your favourite tarts made by your Grandma - just keep it in reasonable amounts.
I like to practice an 80/20 rule when it comes to treating myself. That means 80% healthy food and 20% treats of choice. I still try to keep those treats low sugar and as clean as possible, but don't beat yourself up if they’re not. However, if you are choosing to have a few holiday treats, try to add more vegetables at your meals that are packed with nutrients and fibre. This will aid in your digestion.
Selfcare
Practice self-compassion! During the busy holiday season, don’t forget to take care of yourself and be good to yourself! Get regular sleep, exercise, stay hydrated, and take time to do relaxing or fun things so that you can recharge. Taking care of yourself allows you to be more attentive and calmer during the holidays. When you take care of yourself, it’s possible to be kinder and more giving to others - because every family has that one person! All keeping in the holiday spirit!
Take some time to reflect on the past year. Write a page or two on some amazing things that happened. What are you most grateful for? Where may there be need growth for the coming year? Take the time to sit and breathe. Take a solo walk in nature or meditate. Just don’t forget to take care of YOU this holiday season!
Overall, remember to be realistic and be kind to yourself. Do your best and enjoy this time with your family. The hustle and bustle of the New Year will be here before you know it!