As a child, the holiday season is possibly the best time of the year – there are gifts, treats, parties and pretty lights to look forward to. As an adult though, it can often be a stressful and exhausting time, no matter how much you enjoy the time of year. The extra responsibilities and preparation can often leave us feeling a little overwhelmed and can make us feel like we cannot enjoy the festivities as much as we would like. That is why it is important to look after ourselves during the holiday season, so that we can make the most of what should be a special time, no matter our age!
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Eat Well
It’s difficult to eat well over the holidays. Treats and indulgent food are part and parcel of the celebrations, and it is expected that we will partake. While treats are perfectly fine and encouraged at this time of year, as always, they should be consumed in moderation. Don’t make every meal a rich one, and try not to dip into the chocolates and candy constantly. Remember to eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables to avoid feeling sluggish and putting on excessive weight.
Remember to also drink plenty of water as dehydration can happen even in the colder months, especially if you are rushing around to get things prepared. Many people overdo alcohol consumption over the holidays, and while a tipple here and there is fine, you want to make sure you remember all the fun you have, and not suffer with a hangover when it comes to opening gifts on Christmas morning!
Some people have the opposite problem, and spend so much time looking after others, or rushing around trying to ensure that everything goes smoothly, that they don’t eat enough. Holiday stress is surprisingly common, and can make people feel fatigued as they are not consuming enough to keep their energy levels up. If you are someone who struggles to eat proper meals during the holidays, you could consider a supplement, which works great as either a meal replacement or mass gainer.
Stay Active
It’s harder to find the motivation to exercise during the colder months, but if you can find the motivation to do so, it will make you feel so much better. Exercise will not only help work off any extra calories consumed over the festive season, but will also make you feel physically better – giving you more energy, and also boosts mental health. If you are not able to go to the gym, a walk outside in the fresh air is just as good, if not better, for mental wellbeing, especially if you go walking out in nature.
Take Time for You
Everyone wants the holidays to be perfect, and we spend a lot of time trying to make this happen, especially if we have children or are entertaining guests. Too often though, we forget to look after ourselves. We cannot expect to be on top form for others if we do not take some time for ourselves. Try to make sure you get a little ‘me-time’ each day. It doesn’t have to be anything extravagant – a soak in the tub, reading a book, a walk alone or listening to your favorite music can all be good for the soul and can give you enough of a recharge to keep you going.
Remember that the holidays are as much for you as they are for everyone else. Look after yourself as well as others, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if things are getting too much. Ultimately, this time of year should be enjoyed, so – enjoy it!
