When we make it to the holidays, we usually give ourselves grace when it comes to our health. We sneak an extra Christmas cookie or double up on mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving dinner. And while we are allowed to take a break during this joyous and celebratory time, we do not want to form unhealthy habits.
While you are spending time with family and friends, keep these five things in mind to be happy and healthy, which you can then implement even after the holidays are over.
Minimize Stress
The holidays can be a stressful time. Stress elevates your heart rate and increases your blood pressure. Studies have even shown that sudden emotional stress can trigger heart attacks and arrhythmia. Although this happens mostly in people who already have heart disease, some people don’t know they have a problem until stress causes a heart attack or something worse.
Plan ahead to reduce stress. Create a list of what you need to prepare ahead of time. Also, don’t be afraid to delegate tasks. Holidays are for families to come together, and they can work together too!
Prioritize Sleep
During the holidays, it’s expected to have plenty of late nights. Family and friends gather and tell stories of holidays past or just enjoying each other’s company with food and drink. Some even stay up late watching movies that set the tone for the season. Whatever it is you do, you want to make sure you aren’t sacrificing your sleep.
Aim for 7-8 hours of rest each night to keep your immune system strong and your energy levels up. Lack of sleep can lead to increased stress, lower productivity, and a weaker ability to fight off sickness. Don’t let sleep be the reason you have a miserable holiday.
Protect Your Immune System
Holidays mean large gatherings, plenty of travel, and tons of handshakes and hugs. Don’t spend the season sick, and protect your immune system.
This strategy includes washing your hands frequently, covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing, getting plenty of sleep, drinking the recommended daily amount of water, 3.7 liters for men and 2.7 liters for women, and just staying home if you know others are sick.
Portion Control
People tend to use the holidays as cheat days. This loophole means indulging in food and drink that we would avoid during our regular daily life. Although it’s not bad to want to enjoy the delicious holiday spread, portion sizes should be top-of-mind.
Psychologically, if you see more food on your plate, you are going to want to eat it. Avoid that by only serving yourself what you know you can eat. Additionally, serve your own plate. That will allow you to have control over the portion sizes. And, of course, throw some veggies on the plate to balance your meal and make it a little more healthy.
Exercise
The last thing you want to do when enjoying family time is exercise. However, exercise is a vital pillar of maintaining good health, and it can prevent illnesses such as deep-vein thrombosis (the formation of blood clots in the legs) brought on by remaining immobile for long periods.
Weave exercise into your holiday plans by introducing them in a fun way. Suggest a game night where the main event is a Just Dance marathon. Or make it a tradition for the family to enjoy a nice long walk together after your meal. Whatever way you decide to do it, implement movement into your holiday.
We hope you have a safe and healthy holiday!
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This Article was Updated on 8/29/2024.