With the holidays right around the corner, Thanksgiving feasts, decadent treats, busy shopping schedules and the overall stress of the season can hinder how we maintain a healthy lifestyle. At BESANA Health & Wellness, we are passionate about spreading our knowledge of healthier, happier living. So, in preparation for the months ahead, we’ve compiled self-care tips to ensure you stay mentally and physically healthy throughout the holidays.
1. Eat smart and stay active
We’ve got good news, you don’t have to give up your favorite indulgent, festive meals to practice healthy eating this holiday season. All you need is to make a few modifications. This includes swapping out ingredients in your recipes for healthier options, opting for homemade over processed foods, adding more vegetables to your diet, practicing portion control and of course, eating those sweets and treats in moderation. By eating healthy, nutrient-rich meals before and after the big holidays, you can afford to indulge when the day comes. And when the feast is over, take a walk or do some light exercise. Exercise is not only beneficial for your body and digestion, but also good for your mental health.
2. Practice gratitude
Acknowledging all you have to be thankful for in your life doesn’t have to be a once-a-year occurrence. Continuously practicing gratitude throughout the season can have mental and physical health benefits. More positive thinking can help reduce stress, improve your sleep and strengthen your immune system. Lower levels of stress means reduced inflammation, benefiting your appearance inside and out. Keeping a gratitude journal is a good practice to remind yourself of all the wonderful things you experience each day. As you’re running around trying to get everything ready this holiday season, take some time to appreciate the people who’ve helped you along the way. Send them a quick note or text — it’ll make your day and theirs!
3. Be consistent with your sleep schedule
It may be challenging with all the family gatherings and holiday preparation, but sticking to a sleep schedule will improve your quality of sleep now and after the season is over. Regular sleep helps your body rest and repair, so you can wake up with more energy to tackle the day. Getting enough sleep is also very important for skin care. Your skin does a lot of repair work at night. It increases blood flow and rebuilds its collagen all while you sleep. Ever notice how refreshed you look and feel after a good night’s sleep? It’s no coincidence!
4. Take time for yourself
Don’t let the hustle and bustle of the holidays distract you from taking some much-needed rest and relaxation for yourself. Whenever you’re feeling drained and stressed from accommodating your family and friends, do something that’s going to make YOU feel better. Go for a walk, meditate, read a book or watch your favorite movie, anything you can think of to take a vacation from your holiday. This can even include pampering yourself with Reiki, IV nutrition therapy or laser skin rejuvenation treatments to boost your overall health, wellness and beauty. Self-care is the ultimate survival tool you’ll need to take on the holidays.
With these tips, letting your health and wellness slip through the cracks during the holiday season will be a thing of the past! To learn more about how to become your healthiest self, call us today at 303.327.7300 or request a consultation online.
