Mastering Holiday Well-Being:
Your 5-Step Guide to Thriving Through the Holiday Season
The holiday season is upon us, and it brings with it a delightful mix of sparkle, joy, and cherished moments. However, amid the whirlwind of holiday preparations, gatherings, and endless to-do lists, it's all too easy to overlook our own well-being.
But what if we approached this holiday season with a sprinkle of mindfulness? What if we made simple yet powerful promises to ourselves, focusing on five key elements of well-being? Today we're diving deep into these each, exploring why they matter, how small shifts can lead to significant positive changes, and most importantly, how to make them happen during the holiday season, and beyond!
So, let's embark on a journey to thrive mindfully through the holiday season, prioritizing not just the happiness and well-being of those around us but also our own. With easy-to-follow, we're here to guide you toward a holiday season filled with health, happiness, and inner peace.
Pillar 1: Mindful Eating and Drinking for the Holidays
As we approach the festivities, it's crucial to keep our well-being in check. Our eating and drinking habits can either make or break our holiday spirit.
Small Shift, Big Change for the Holidays:
Daily Smoothie Ritual: Set a powerful foundation for your day with a nutrient-packed smoothie to balance out holiday indulgences. Lean on green rather that fruit for best results! CLICK HERE FOR OUR FAVE GREEN SMOOTHIE!
Stay Hydrated: When you wake up in the morning, begin with a glass of water and a squeeze of lemon. This is going to kick-start your digestive system. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE POWERS OF LEMON WATER! Also, keep a water bottle handy and DRINK UP! Combat dehydration and its side effects like brain fog and low energy.
Mindful Portions: Enjoy holiday feasts but pay attention to portion sizes to avoid overindulging. Put down your plate when you’re 80% full! You’ll be so happy you did.
Pillar 2: Mindful Thinking in the Midst of Festivities
Amidst the joy and excitement of the holidays, it's important to address the mental aspect of our well-being. With so much happening, and so much pressure to be “on”, anxiety can sometimes creep in, threatening our peace and presence. Protect your inner calm!
Small Shift, Big Calm:
Greet Anxiety: When anxiety shows up, acknowledge it with a friendly 'Hello' and practice deep breathing.
Mindful Moments: Find moments of mindfulness during holiday activities like decorating or gift wrapping.
Mini Meditation and Gratitude Journaling: This might sound like it’s another thing on your “to do” list but it can be as simple as two minutes of sitting, mindfully breathing and another two of writing. Gift yourself this time! It will pay off later.
Pillar 3: Mindful Rest and Rejuvenation
Holiday hustle and bustle can sometimes leave us feeling worn out. But remember, rest is a precious gift you can give yourself during this time.
Small Shift, Big Change for the Holidays:
Bedtime Routine: Create a calming bedtime routine that includes a quick tidy of your space, some reading time (what have you been wanting to read all year?!) whilst sipping herbal tea.
Nap Breaks: Carve out short breaks during the day for power naps or moments of relaxation. Did you know 26 minutes is the ultimate naptime? Set a (calm!) timer and reap the rewards.
Pillar 4: Mindful Movement to Keep the Holiday Spirit Alive
While the holidays often involve feasting and cozying up indoors, movement remains essential for our well-being.
Small Shift, Big Change for the Holidays:
Family Walks: Go for post-dinner family walks to stay active. Pull on those holiday sweaters and get moving!
Holiday Dance Party: Host a dance party with holiday tunes to keep everyone moving. Who doesn’t love a kitchen disco?
Outdoor Activities: Engage in winter sports like sledding or ice skating for some holiday-themed movement.
Pillar 5: Mindful Commitment to Self this Holiday Season
As we embrace the holiday spirit, let's remember that committing to these pillars is a promise to ourselves for a healthier, more balanced holiday season.
Small Shift, Big Change for the Holidays:
Embrace Imperfection: Let go of the quest for perfection and embrace the uniqueness of the holiday season. Don’t let those Instagram images steal the “realness” of your own joy!
Set Realistic Goals: Define achievable self-care goals for the holidays, focusing on balance and joy. Keep it simple!
Self-Compassion: Practice self-compassion and remind yourself that every mindful step you take is a step towards a more fulfilling holiday season.
