Winter Survival Guide: Health & Wellness Edition
During the holiday season, things can become overwhelming. It’s important to have a plan, perhaps even a survival guide.
“Mind. Body. Soul. These are the three things self-care is all about.”
It’s always important, but caring for yourself is paramount during this time of the year. Things (well… people, parties, work, schedules, to-do lists, etc.) can become overwhelming. It’s important to have a plan, perhaps even a SURVIVAL GUIDE! That’s what I hope to help you with here. Read on for some simple tips, in no particular order!
Plan Ahead
In addition to our regularly scheduled busy days, the holidays have the tendency to add a level of hectic energy and activity. Hopefully, you have been powering through well, thus far. Still, it’s important to know that planning ahead will help in achieving clarity, focus, and efficiency. It will also allow you to set the tone of what you’re doing, where you’re going, and who’ll you will interact with (& in what capacity). Important stuff! You are in charge of your managing your own experience. Ask questions, research, prepare in whatever manner you deem necessary to enjoy yourself to the best of your ability.
Say No (when needed)
This is a big one… but it can also be a tough one. Saying “no” isn’t always comfortable, for the person saying it nor for the person hearing it. It’s real and necessary. Sometimes the best approach is a straightforward but kind “no”. You might say something like, “Thank you for thinking of me, but I’m going to pass.” Being clear & kind avoids confusion and minimizes hurt feelings. Remember, you don’t have to do it all, give yourself permission to rest even if that means saying no to a “fun” event, an “annual” event, or even a friend’s event. True friends and loved ones will understand and want the best for you even if it means you can’t do all the things.
Stay Active
Find ways to keep moving. Consider a holiday 5K or 10K during the winter season, perhaps even simple neighborhood walks. Not only can physical activity be good for your body, it’s also good for your mental health and wellness during this season. If you really want to get active, try something you haven’t done before: do a rotation of squats, calf raises, and leg lifts while you’re standing in the kitchen preparing for guests to arrive. If that doesn’t work for you, hop up and take a brisk walk around the house or a bit of stair climbing.
Prioritize Sleep
In my opinion, this is one of the best ways that you can take care of yourself during this season and always. In years past, it’s been a difficult feat for me but as time goes on, I’m realizing the importance of a good night’s sleep for my mind and body. One of the most beneficial sleep hygiene tips is creating a bedtime routine for yourself. Start winding down as bedtime approaches, create the appropriate ambience in the room (relaxing & cool temperature), minimize work/household tasks, and shut down your electronics. Yep… even reading on your phone at bedtime can pose an issue with blue light exposure causing eye strain. And one of the most valuable pieces of advice I’ve been given is to get out of bed if you find yourself tossing and turning after more than thirty minutes to an hour. When you get up, take yourself out of the bedroom and do a lowkey, calming activity. Those activities may include reading a physical book or light stretching, for example.
Practice Mindful Eating
Biggest reminder: Enjoy yourself! During this time of the year, it’s important to find joy wherever you can. For a lot of us, we find comfort in delicious food. With that being said, it’s important to stay mindful and practice portion control when enjoying your meals. I mean, don’t pass up on the dessert, but make sure it’s worth your time. For example, don’t grab a handful of preservative-filled, store-bought cookies, topped with bitter frosting… take the time to make homemade cookies (and memories). With homemade food, you are in control and able to select better-for-you ingredients that still make a delicious treat. Create a new recipe with healthier ingredients or adjust one of your longtime favorite recipes with healthier ingredients. This tip applies to savory side dishes and treats to satisfy your sweet tooth, as well.
