by Dr. Marita Schauch, ND, Tall Tree Integrated Health Centre –
Let’s face it: it can be really hard to stay on track with a healthy lifestyle over the holidays. Temptation is aplenty; coziness abounds. It can be easy to get swept up with all of the festivities and suddenly realize you’re well established on the sugar rollercoaster, and it’s been weeks since you moved your body.
There is a flip side to this as well, where those who are so strict in maintaining their usual healthy routine that they end up coming out of the holidays feeling like they missed out on all of the joy.
It really is about finding balance. You can have both: indulgence, relaxation and joy are absolutely a part of a healthy lifestyle.
I’ve pulled together some of my favourite tips to enjoy this season, without getting totally thrown off track.
Keep at Least One Meal a Day in Your Usual Routine. Breakfast is a great one to keep along with your usual routine. If you typically start off your day with a smoothie, keep that up over the season. This allows there to be some structure to balance out all of the holiday flow.
Make Your Treats Healthy. I am a big believer in DIY treats because you get to choose what goes into them. There are some little changes you can make to classic holiday recipes, as well as totally new drool-worthy ideas that have less refined sugar and carbohydrates and are made with good quality ingredients.
Go for a Walk. Seriously though, go for a walk. It’s OK if you miss out on some of your usual fitness routines, but walking is always accessible, and you will thank me after you get some fresh air and blood flowing through your body. Walking is also a fantastic form of movement that supports your heart. Invite the whole Christmas Crew.
Create Time to Centre. Amidst all of the hustle and bustle, carve out time to just be with yourself. This could be yoga, meditation, journaling, or even hot cocoa in the corner. Taking even a few minutes of space to ground yourself and come back to your centre goes a long way in keeping you connected to the signals your body is giving you.
Listen to Your Body. Be honest: you always know deep down when you’re overdoing it. Listen to the messages your body is giving you. Are you feeling full? Are you really craving another truffle, or does your body actually want some protein or some water? Is it time for bed, or another eggnog? The answer is always there for you if you pay attention.
Don’t Beat Yourself Up. At the end of it all, no matter how off track you find yourself, know that it’s okay. Tomorrow is a new day, and there is no sense in beating yourself up for having a good time. Joy and fulfillment are always worth it, and sometimes being in balance means losing it for a moment. Be kind to yourself and HAVE FUN.
Happy Holidays.
