3 Tips for a Healthy, Happy Holiday

Tidings of comfort and joy, my friends! The holiday season is upon us.

Let’s face it, this time if year is both wonderful and stressful. I love seeing friends and family, the music, the cheer, and the general acceptance of matching plaid pajamas. I dislike the holiday takeover of my body — both physically and mentally.

Here are 3 tips for a healthy, happy holiday:

1) Don’t show up to a holiday party starving. I like to eat a little bit before I leave my home. That way, I don’t walk in on an empty stomach and eat everything in sight. A little food on the stomach will help in making good eating decisions at the party. It’ll also keep the alcohol from hitting so hard. A few suggested pre-party snacks: apple + almond butter; carrots + hummus; avocado + crackers. Another little trick is to think before you eat. Ask yourself “am I still hungry?”

2) Give to someone in need. Every single year, while shopping for Christmas gifts, I find myself in the dressing room of some boutique convincing myself that I “need” this sweater for the holidays. I don’t need another thing. But I know for a fact that someone in my city or your town really does need a sweater or a hot meal. Look, we are all busy this time of year. If you do one thing for one person in need this season, I guarantee that gesture will bring you more joy than any of the gifts you’ll receive.

3) Move your body. Yes, this is a nutty time. The first thing we give up is exercise. Don’t do it!! Keep your routine or adjust it, but do not give up the opportunity to move your body. More than anything, exercise helps stress and clears the mind. It doesn’t hurt to burn off a few of those holiday calories as well.