Health and the Holidays

November 4, 2022|

1 minute read

Summary

During the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s easy to lose sight of our health goals. Below are some tips to help you prioritize wellness and wellbeing during this busy time of year.

Hydrate

Water is essential to our health. It prevents dehydration, helps us maintain a normal body temperature, lubricates and cushions our joints, and aids in our digestive process. In a season filled with parties, travel, and extra errands, staying hydrated is especially key. To ensure you’re drinking enough water, try working hydration into your daily routine. Start your day with a glass of water, and invest in a fun, reusable water bottle, so that you have access to water while you’re on the go. If you’re attending a holiday gathering, try to drink a glass of water for every cocktail or glass of wine you consume. If you’re hosting a gathering, make sure that hydrating beverages like water and herbal tea are easily accessible to guests. You might even consider infusing a pitcher of water with sliced apples and cinnamon sticks for a bit of festive flair.

Move As Much As Possible

November and December bring cooler days and longer nights, making it more difficult to get outside and stay active. Make exercise a family tradition, and try incorporating outdoor activities into your holiday festivities. A Thanksgiving morning hike is a great way to get everybody moving before the big meal, and post-meal walks allow loved ones to laugh, connect, and reflect during the holiday.

Make Time for Rest

Our brains and bodies need sleep to function properly, but maintaining a regular sleep schedule during the holidays can be a challenge, as holiday gatherings, travel, stress, and irregular eating can disrupt our usual sleep cycle. While planning your holiday schedule, aim for balance, and don’t overcommit to attending evening events. If you find yourself feeling stressed around the holidays, try scheduling 15 minutes in the early afternoon or early evening to journal or create your to-do-list for the next day. Set a bedtime for yourself, and stick to it as many nights of the week as possible. Limit your exposure to electronics before bed, and create a wind-down ritual for yourself to help ease into sleep. Reading, meditation, and sipping a warm cup of herbal tea are all excellent activities to aid in relaxation.

Make Produce the Star

From mashed potatoes to pumpkin pie, many of our holiday meal traditions center around rich foods and sweets, so make sure to balance your holiday spread with plenty of fruits and vegetables. In-season items like squash and Brussels sprouts are flavorful and full of fiber, while citrus, pomegranates, and greens (like collards) add a healthful dose of vitamins and minerals.

Topics:

Grocery

Health and Nutrition

Holiday

Produce

Wellness