1. Drink smart
Although we’d all feel more energetic and vibrant without alcohol, it’s unrealistic to not drink over the festive season. Some people may even use it to get through the festive season.
Try to stick to red wine or spirits in place of sugary cocktails and don’t overdo it. Sugar spikes your blood sugar levels which can lead to a dip causing cravings, low energy, mood swings and poor concentration.
Find other ways to deal with potential stresses like taking 10 minutes for yourself to do breathing exercises.
Stay hydrated by alternating alcohol with glasses of water or drink water throughout the day so you’re adequately hydrated for the evening celebrations.
2. Meditate
Meditation can really help you relax and clear
your mind of the party buzz. Incorporate 10-15 minutes of meditation into your morning or
evening routine. You can use the Headspace or CALM apps to help guide you.
3. Keep moving
For many people, exercise goes out the window over the festive season, with everything going on. Here are some easy ways to incorporate at least a little bit more mood-enhancing exercise:
Go for a festive walk with the family to see the Christmas lights.
Get up a little earlier and go for a 30-minute run or workout at the gym.
Get off the train one stop earlier and walk to your destination.
Play games with the family that requires some form of physical activity.
Do 15-20 minutes of yoga at home on YouTube.
4. Eat mindfully
This may not sound like a big deal but eating
your food whilst staying present, igniting your senses and chewing adequately can really help
with digestion. This may help ease the post-indulgence abdominal pain.
5. Me time
Things can become a bit over-whelming around Christmas time with events to organise, places to go, presents to source and kids to sort out.
Take 30 minutes every day where you can be by yourself to calm your mind.
Have a bath with candles and lavender oils
Read a book
Practice deep breathing (breath in for 8, hold for 5 and breath out for 5)
Go for a walk
6. Get organised
Keep a journal or notebook by your bed and write down all your to dos and ruminations before you go to sleep. This will make it less likely for your mind to keep spinning.
Plan for unforeseen circumstances, rather have too much food for a gathering than too little. You can always have leftovers.
Say no, don’t over commit to plan things you may not have time for or may not want to do. You also want to enjoy yourself and relax.
7. Gratitude
This period can sometimes be over-whelming and we can lose sight of what’s important. In the mornings, write down 10 things that you are grateful for. This can really help with mental well-being. You can practice this with the family as well. Even small things count.
8. Sleep
Sleep is incredibly important for mental and
overall health. Too much alcohol and over-eating before bed can impact your sleep. If you are unable to get 7-8 hours of sleep a night, take a nap during the day and try to get back on your usual sleep schedule the next day.
9. Eat well
The traditional Christmas dinner is full of protein and fibre. Load your plate with more of the veggies and less of the Yorkshire puddings, roast potatoes and gravy.
Make healthy swaps
Canapes -> crudites
Crisps -> nuts & seeds
Milk chocolate -> dark low sugar chocolate
Crackers -> oatcakes
Other healthier options
Pure nut butter with apple/ pear
Oatcakes with nut butter or hummus
Coconut yoghurt with berries
See if you can make festive pudding with less sugar. Here’s a great recipe for chocolate mousse.
10. No guilt
If you go off the rails a bit with your eating and drinking, don’t stress too much. Pick yourself back up and be more conscious the next day.