Wellness Wednesday

This week I'm in the process of writing a mock grant proposal for a class plus getting ready for a craft show that I'm doing as a fundraiser for our local homeless ministry.  That said, I haven't had a lot of time to do research for *Wellness Wednesday."  Instead, since it is the holiday season when many of us get off the good health track, I'm sharing 6 Healthy Holiday Tips from MindBodyGreen:

6 Healthy Holiday Tips

By Katie Bressack

The holidays are always a wonderful time to see family, friends and be with loved ones. They are also the busiest time of the year and sometimes we get so caught up in what we need to do, that we might forget about taking care of ourselves. 

Here are six of my favorite healthy holiday tips that I like to share with my clients to help them maintain balance in their lives.  

1. Tis the Season to Plan

A secret of mine is to plan ahead by writing lists. Write down everything you need to do and give yourself deadlines. It is amazing how much you can get done if you actually know what you want to accomplish. 

2. A Spoonful of Love

Don’t forget about you. It is the season for giving but if you are overworked, stressed and running around you won’t be able to enjoy the holidays. Keep your energy levels up! Maintain your sleep schedule and aim for at least 8 hours of sleep. Stay focused on your exercise regimen. Working out will help your energy levels remain high and keep your brain clear and focused. It also keeps us from binging on all of the cookies and treats in your office or home. 

3. Have Yourself A Very Merry Plate

At your holiday gatherings, eat whatever you want just take smaller than usual portions. Keep enough room on your plate so you can see spaces in between the different foods. If you know you will still indulge just a little too much use a smaller plate so even if it is full, your stomach won’t be. 

4. Joy to Making Memories

You usually only eat Pecan Pie once a year so how about actually tasting and enjoying the Pecan Pie. By taking small bites and chewing all of your food slowly you actually taste all of the deliciousness you or a loved one has made. 

5. Sleigh Bells Ring, Is It Time For Seconds?

A great trick is to drink an entire glass of water after you eat. Then wait 15-20 minutes. Take this time to jump into conversations with your loved ones or start a fun chat. It also allows you to really listen to your body. Are you really hungry and need seconds? The time in between your last bite and your spoon in the mash potatoes will make this clear for you.  

6. Enjoy, Enjoy, Enjoy

The holidays are special because they only happen once a year. The most important thing to remember is to enjoy them because they go by so fast. Sometimes it is the only time of year you might see someone you love.