A few years ago, we were literally forced to slow down. Some of us fought this and others gave in to what the world was speaking of. We became mindful of who and what mattered and through social media we found new ways to connect. I know I slowed down and began to enjoy the time. And now it feels like the floodgates have opened and the holidays are busy with traveling, parties, schedules and emptying our bank accounts for holiday gifts!
And now I believe it’s best to prepare your mind, body and habits so you can be as stress-free as possible. Here are some helpful tips:
De-mystify “holiday” foods. There is no such thing as “good” or “bad”. Some foods have more nutritional value than others, but you’re not “bad” when you want to eat something with less nutritional value. When we put a moral value on foods, what’s meant to nourish us becomes associated with guilt. De-mystifying holiday foods and permitting yourself to eat whatever you want helps you achieve better control of your food choices. Have you noticed how there are people who do not limit or deprive themselves of food (whether it’s the holidays or not). Choosing portions that make you feel good and surprisingly you crave more nutritious foods because you get rid of food rules. This helps to stop the want-what-you-can’t-have allure that comes with labeling foods as “off-limits.”
Add fruits and veggies. At a holiday dinner the other night, I overheard my husband and son deciding what to eat. They had decided what they wanted for their appetizer and their main course and then they said, “wait, we need something green”. I had a proud mom moment! So, no matter what you eat for your meal, be sure to add something in the vegetable category!
Get sleep! When I get enough sleep I am not as moody, have more energy and make rational food choices. And, I always notice that when I am extra sleepy, I crave sugary foods. So, getting enough sleep allows me to eat what I want, when I want and not just because I am over tired. The holidays are about fun and friends and family but also about taking enough time for myself!!
Movement of the body everyday! For as long as I can remember, the gym has been closed on specific holidays. I always felt that this was so unfair, as it was a day that I had all to myself and it was indeed the perfect day to go to the gym for a class or just my own extra long workout. Well, rather than shed tears about this, I started to walk outside or do my own home workout. Movement is important, so however you can accomplish this during the holiday season it will be a huge benefit for you physically and mentally.
Make mealtime about mindfulness. I try hard to eat when I am hungry, for enjoyment, social connection, ritual, and celebration. I really try to take into account the smell of the food, the way it tastes in my mouth, and how I take time to enjoy what I am eating. It is remarkable to be able to notice how I feel when someone says “take a bite” and I decline because I am really “not in the mood” or when the ice cream and warm brownie is calling my name at the end of the family meal! Being mindful and intentional is as good as the dessert itself!
I hope these tidbits can be helpful and remember during the holiday madness that you are in control of your own footsteps.