Maintaining Healthy Habits During the Holidays: Tips for Staying on Track

If you’re like me, you must be looking forward to the holiday season, but at the same time a little worried about losing some of the gains you’ve made during the year – especially if it has to do with your weight. The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. However, it can also be a period of indulgence and disruption to our regular routines. With festive gatherings, travel plans, and a plethora of delicious treats, maintaining healthy habits can seem challenging.

Don’t fret, it’s entirely possible to enjoy the season while staying on track with your wellness goals (note to self). I challenge us to keep on track as much as possible, with a little flexibility of course. Here are some practical tips to help you keep up with positive habits and avoid common pitfalls during the holidays.

1. Prioritize Your Well-Being

Amidst the hustle and bustle, it’s crucial to remember that your health should come first. Make a conscious decision to prioritize your well-being, even when your schedule gets busy. This mindset will help you stay committed to your healthy habits. For those who will be hosting, make time for yourself to rest, and enjoy some of the season. Get help if you need to, otherwise, the season will leave you with some resentment.

2. Plan Ahead

Planning is your best ally during the holiday season. Look at your calendar and identify potential challenges, such as holiday parties, travel, or family gatherings. Develop a plan for how you will handle these situations. For instance, if you know you’ll be attending a party, plan to eat a healthy meal beforehand to avoid overindulging.

3. Stay Active

Physical activity is essential for maintaining both physical and mental health. Even if you can’t stick to your regular workout routine, find ways to stay active. Go for a walk after meals, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or engage in family activities that get you moving, play with the younger ones, and do some physical work every now and then.

4. Make Smart Food Choices

The holidays are synonymous with delicious food, but that doesn’t mean you have to abandon your healthy eating habits. Focus on portion control and balance. Enjoy your favorite holiday treats in moderation and try to fill your plate with healthier options first. Incorporate plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into your meals. If you really have to over-indulge, counter it with a recovery routine that you’ll follow to remove the guilt.

5. Stay Hydrated

With all the festive beverages around, it’s easy to forget to drink water – I do. Staying hydrated is essential for your overall health and can help you avoid overeating. Make it a habit to drink a glass of water before meals and carry a water bottle with you when you’re on the go.

6. Get Enough Sleep

The excitement and activities of the holidays can disrupt your sleep schedule. However, getting enough rest is crucial for maintaining your energy levels and overall health. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and try to maintain a consistent sleep routine, even during the holidays. This will be hard for me to consistently do, but it’s better to have a few days in the week that feel a little normal than to mess them all up.

7. Practice Mindfulness

The holiday season can be stressful, and stress can lead to unhealthy habits. Incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine to help manage stress. This could include meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply taking a few moments each day to reflect and relax. For those who pray, find some time every day in your routine – it can be a different time than the usual times but do make some time for it.

8. Limit Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol is often a significant part of holiday celebrations, but it’s essential to consume it in moderation. Excessive alcohol intake can lead to poor decision-making, including overeating and neglecting your healthy routines. Set limits for yourself and alternate alcoholic drinks with water or other non-alcoholic beverages. This will also save you some money.

9. Stay Connected

Maintaining social connections is important for your emotional well-being. During the holidays, stay connected with supportive friends and family members who encourage your healthy habits. Share your goals with them so they can help keep you accountable. You might recruit a few others to your good routines.

10. Be Kind to Yourself

Finally, remember that it’s okay to indulge and enjoy the holiday season. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you have a day or two where you deviate from your usual routine. What matters most is getting back on track and continuing to make healthy choices.

Conclusion

Maintaining healthy habits during the holidays doesn’t have to be an uphill battle. By planning ahead, staying active, making mindful food choices, and prioritizing your well-being, you can enjoy the festive season while staying on track with your health goals. Embrace the joy and celebration of the holidays, knowing that you have the tools to maintain your healthy habits and enter the new year feeling your best.