Before you even think about New Year’s resolutions, you have some celebrating to do! It’s easy to lose focus on a healthy lifestyle with so many fun — and delicious — distractions during the holidays. That’s why we’ve compiled some ways to make this time happy and healthy for you and your family.
Manage your stress
Holiday to-do lists can seem endless. Use these tips so you enjoy the festivities, too (and perhaps even some downtime):
- Don’t sacrifice sleep. Resist the temptation to let changes in routine rearrange your schedule.
- Avoid overcommitting. Consult with your family about the events that are most important to them rather than overscheduling to fit in everything.
- Connect with others for support. More than anything, this time is about family and friends. Find comfort in them.
“Remind yourself, you’re human, you’ve done your best for one day. Overeating won’t help,” says Jackie Enlund, MPH, RD, LD, a registered dietitian with the Diabetes and Nutrition Teaching Center at Aiken Regional. “Take five minutes to shut the door, de-stress and get your thoughts together. For some, a 10-minute bout of jumping jacks, sit-ups or a quick walk up the block can reframe your mind.”
Stay active, not just busy
The walking you do while shopping counts. In fact, many people turn to indoor walking during the colder months to help keep fit.
“Take daily family walks,” Enlund says. “Be intentional about limiting screen time and get everybody involved with holiday tasks to maximize family time.”
Also consider:
- Fire up a YouTube® fitness video online. It’s easy to find workouts specific to your personal goals.
- Warm-ups are crucial. Take the time to stretch and get your blood flowing.
- Make it fun for the whole family! Dancing is a great form of exercise. Gather the kids, put on some music and enjoy!
Healthy holiday eating – yes, it’s possible!
You and your family can have [some of] your cake and eat it, too. Just keep the following tips in mind:
- Limit your portion sizes. You don’t have to miss out — just don’t “pig out.”
- If you’re at a party with your kids, make their dinner plate. Piling on veggies and lean meats will leave less room for sweet treats.
- Focus on friends and fun, not food. Catch up with friends and family. Soak up the love.
“Use the plate method: Fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables, another quarter with starch and the last quarter with protein,” says Enlund. “Savor each bite and don’t go back for seconds.”
Drink Wisely
Each year, an average of 300 people die in drunk-driving crashes between the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. If you partake in libations, remember:
- You should never drink and drive — or ride with anyone who has been drinking.
- It’s important to remember to drink in moderation. A maximum of one drink per day is recommended for women.
Aiken Regional Medical Centers wishes you and your family happy, healthy holidays. We look forward to another year with you!