The holiday season is upon us! 2020 has been challenging in many ways. This year has taught us so much about ourselves and about the importance of family and health. Wellbeing has never been more critical, and although this year has been different, some things never change. The holiday season can be stressful for many different reasons, which is why we bring you a few healthy living tips to keep yourself ahead of the game.
Make a Budget
The holidays may be all about giving, and you might feel the temptation to overspend, especially when it comes to buying presents for the little ones. However, set yourself a budget to prevent getting stressed about money in the new year. We recommend you break your budget into categories so you know where you can spend a little extra, and where you should skimp. For example, categories could be broken down as follow:
- Gifts (family, friends, teachers, mail carrier)
- Food (holiday meals, baking)
- Decorations (tree, ornaments, gift wrap)
- Donations (gifts to charity)
If your budget is tight this year, start with the total amount you can spend and work backwards. And remember, homemade decorations and simple gifts that come from the heart are what the holidays are all about.
Stick to your Good Habits
With so much to do, it can be easy to fall down the rabbit hole. It's easy to neglect your good habits. Keep up your healthy eating and daily exercise, this will give you all the energy you need to get all those holiday tasks off your list. Keep a few easy healthy quick lunch and snack options ready in your fridge, and stay away from the chocolate and mince pies. Moderation is key.
Stay hydrated
With all the fun activities you probably have planned, it's easy to forget to stay hydrated. Set yourself a goal to drink a plentiful and reasonable amount of water every day, and reward your good habits at the end of the holiday period.
Find Time to Exercise
As mentioned before, stick to your good habits. If you have started your fitness journey with Curves, don't quick over the holiday period. If you haven't started yet, then what are you waiting for? Working out releases stress. Physical activity stimulates various brain chemicals that may leave you feeling happier, more relaxed and less anxious. Exercise also delivers oxygen and nutrients to your tissues and helps your cardiovascular system work more efficiently, giving you more overall energy.
It's all about Moderation
There's nothing wrong with enjoying an indulgent, festive dinner — but you'll want to make sure that your meals surrounding it are healthy and nutrient-dense. Don't skip meals! Instead, make sure you have a healthy breakfast and a light lunch if you are planning for a heavy dinner. By eating healthy during the holiday season, you can afford to go all out for your Christmas dinner.
Add more vegetables
Increase the number of vegetable on the dinner table. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, carrots and potatoes will never go out of fashion. You can also opt for serving a salad with a light dressing (hello olive oil and balsamic vinegar) before dinner. This will help everyone make sure they get the vegetables they need instead of filling up on buttery mashed potatoes.
Remember the Reason
Remember why we celebrate this time of year. Remember the reasons to be grateful and with a full heart. Remembering will help us connect with the inner child we all have deep down inside. Remember the magic and the value of small details. Enjoying the company of your loved ones will be the most stress-free part of the holidays, savour every moment.
Don't forget to Rest
Enjoy your time off, relax, have fun with your family. Don't stress about having the perfect holiday. Take time for yourself and make sure you are rested and ready to receive the new year!
Give yourself the gift of health this holiday season, find your nearest Curves club today, and ask about our membership and promotions. Kickstart your year, start today!
