How To Maintain Health Throughout The Holiday Season

The holiday season is officially upon us! This time of year brings cozy sweaters, crisp weather, and familiar scents like cinnamon, fresh spruce, and fallen leaves—evoking cherished memories. It’s a special time to connect with loved ones, celebrate traditions passed down through generations, and savor the magic of the season. However, alongside the joys of the holidays come indulgent treats, reduced physical activity, and often increased stress. In this article, we give you tips and tricks for maintaining health throughout the holidays while still enjoying every precious moment.

Be Selective in Food Choices

There is no denying that food contributes to special memories and traditions created during the holidays. However, not all food holds the same sentimental or celebratory value. Some dishes can be skipped without feeling like you’re missing out on cherished traditions. Reflect on your holiday treats to ensure they bring genuine joy to your heart—not just temporary satisfaction to your taste buds.

For example, at holiday work parties where the food might be average rather than exceptional, consider bringing your own meal. Alternatively, choose healthier options like non-breaded meats without gravy and sweet sauces, along with vegetables and fruits. If a neighbor gifts you homemade sweets, enjoy one if you’d like, and share the rest with colleagues or family members to spread the enjoyment.

Pick A Day to Go All Out

It’s important to let loose every once in a while. If you’ve been staying disciplined throughout the holiday season, don’t hesitate to treat yourself on a few select days. Choose specific occasions, like Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, to indulge in the delicious foods of the season. Planning these “all-out” days can help you stick to healthy habits during the rest of the holidays, knowing a well-earned reward is on the horizon.

When the day comes, go all out! This is the moment you’ve worked for, so enjoy your favorite foods in whatever quantity you desire. If Christmas morning calls for warm cinnamon rolls, a mug of hot chocolate, and a big side of cookies, embrace it. This day is all about you!

Remember, chronic health conditions, long-term excessive weight gain, and other serious health concerns are not caused by one day of over-indulgence. Your “all-out” day is not likely to cause chronic health conditions or lead to permanent weight gain. Allow yourself to relax and fully enjoy the day, knowing that you will return to your normal healthy habits the following day.

Stay Active

Who says you have to wait until January 1st to start a new walking/jogging routine or join a gym? The holiday months, with their cooler air and festive colors, provide the perfect backdrop for getting active. Throw on a jacket, step outside, and take a refreshing stroll. Use the season’s spirit of togetherness to your advantage—call a loved one and invite them to join you. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy quality time while boosting your health and soaking in the beauty of the season.

Another excellent way to stay active during the holidays is by joining a gym. While it might seem unconventional, this season is an ideal time to start lifting weights or increasing your cardiovascular activity. Gyms are often quieter toward the end of the year, meaning you’ll likely have more space and time to get comfortable with the equipment and establish a routine. Starting now gives you a head start before the New Year’s resolution crowd arrives.

Manage Stress

The holiday season brings wonderful festivities, but it can also bring stress. The pressure to attend every event, participate in every activity, and create perfect, long-lasting memories can weigh heavily on your mental health. This year, prioritize a stress-free (or at least less stressful) holiday experience. Don’t over-commit, decide what is truly important versus what you’re attending due to a feeling of obligation. Focus on quality over quantity, and allow yourself the space to fully enjoy the season.

Instead of rushing from one obligation to the next, take time to slow down and cherish the sweet moments of the holidays. Plan cozy evenings of Christmas movies, cookie baking, or family game nights with festive music setting the mood. Pause, breathe, and embrace the joy of simply being present. This year, give yourself the gift of permission to savor every sweet and meaningful moment the holidays have to offer.

Learn to Say No

The ability to say no will serve as a superpower during this holiday season. It can be hard to say no at any time of the year, but the holidays make it especially difficult. It is understandable not to want to disappoint others by turning down invites or holiday food. However, even during the holidays, it is important to prioritize your needs while self-governing your time and energy.

Allowing yourself to become a “yes man” can trap you in a cycle of constantly trying to please others while neglecting your own happiness and needs. This behavior can leave you overwhelmed, stressed, and both mentally and physically unhealthy. In this state, you do not have the ability to enjoy the holidays with the people who truly matter which in turn will cause them to feel unhappy.

Do you see the vicious cycle? By trying to make everyone happy, you end up unhappy, which ultimately affects the happiness of those who genuinely care for you. It’s vital to learn how to say no, with confidence but also compassion. Prioritizing your well-being leads to a happier, healthier you, and that joy naturally radiates to those who love and cherish you the most.

Maintain Health Throughout The Holiday Season

The holiday season does not have to wreak havoc on your waistline or physical and mental health. It is possible to enjoy the season and create new memories while cherishing the old without over-committing and overindulging. Take things slow this year, and cherish every sweet moment the holiday season provides us. Hold your loved ones close as you enjoy a family game night followed by a cozy night of classic Christmas movies.

Create new routines with those you love by engaging in family walks, football in the yard, or a trip to the gym. And yes, the gym can be an enjoyable event if you are building muscle and memories with your favorite people. Give yourself permission to say no this year. As you do feel the weight of the holidays come off your shoulders as it is replaced with a sense of calm warmth and nostalgia that will truly allow you to enjoy your holiday season.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from your Human Health Co. family. We truly wish you and your family the most memorable and enjoyable holiday season!