5 Tips to Get Your Mind and Body Ready for the Holiday Hustle

Joy, food, laughter, food, music and … did we mention food? The holidays are a time for tradition and connection with loved ones near and far. All that goodness does come at a cost, however: stress, indulgent eating and disrupted routines can present challenges.

Entering the holidays with a plan is key to thriving through the season. YMCA Orange County’s Wellness Coaches wrapped these five tips up for you in a bow to help you stay healthy and stress-free during the holiday season:

Plan Ahead. By setting realistic goals before the holiday, such as maintaining your current weight or staying active every day, you help yourself stay focused and centered. This also will help you define some ways you can plan ahead for the holidays. Meal prep and strategic grocery shopping (stocking up on fruits, veggies, lean proteins and whole grains, for example) will help you stick to a healthy diet when schedules get busy.

Enjoy in Moderation. Holiday treats help define the season for many of us. By practicing mindful eating, you can enjoy small amounts of your favorites, paying close attention to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Remember: you don’t need to eat everything everyone offers you, and you have control over the portions that go on your plate. Start with smaller servings, savor every bite and only go back for more if you’re still hungry.

Prioritize Relaxation. Travel, house guests and other disruptions to your schedule can elevate stress levels. Proactively incorporate relaxation techniques to make sure you are taking care of your whole self – mind and body – during the holidays. Don’t have time for a yoga class? Deep breathing and meditation, for even just a few minutes a day, can help calm your mind and keep stress at bay. And don’t neglect your Zzz’s! Sleep has been proven to help reduce stress and help maintain health. Keeping your bedtime routine as steady as possible, and aiming for 7-9 hours of sleep per night, are essential.

Move it. Physical activity is a great way to combat holiday stress and keep your energy up. Even if your usual routine is disrupted, find ways to stay active. This could be a brisk walk, a quick workout at home, or incorporate movement into your holiday traditions. Organize a family walk after a big meal, go ice skating, or have a dance-off to your favorite holiday tunes. These activities can be enjoyable and help you stay active.

Say ‘No’ to FOMO. It’s OK to say no to events that don’t fit your health goals or that could lead to unnecessary stress. Choose gatherings that allow you to connect in meaningful ways to your loved ones. Being mindful about how you socialize can help shift the focus away from overindulgence and toward connection and enjoyment.

Want to learn more about how to make the holidays more merry and bright? Reach out to YMCA’s free Wellness Coaching program for support with weight loss, stress management, healthy eating and active living.