I’ve gathered my favourite tips to support you in enjoying everything the holidays has to offer while avoiding the guilt and low energy that usually follows a busy holiday season. This isn't a time to neglect your personal health & wellness. Instead it's a time of year where it's crucial!
Stay hydrated!
Drinking extra water will offset some of the processed sugar and alcohol intake that leads us to dehydration. We all have something we love to indulge in and this time of year it’s usually not foods that give our bodies nutrients.
Recipe substitutions!
This may not be a favourite trick but it can help with a sweet craving. An easy example is hot chocolate. Check out this healthier recipe to make at home here! Substitution examples can include white sugar for coconut sugar or sour cream for greek yogurt.
Choose your splurges and treats ahead of time.
Create balance by not indulging at every event or party. Pick a few that will offer you the best opportunity to fully relax and enjoy.
Pre-plan your workout & yoga schedule!
Commit to moving your body and clearing your mind every single day. This will allow you to show up as your best self. The holidays can be stressful but by claiming this time on your mat, meditation cushion, cycle class, etc will encourage you to go throughout the day with a positive attitude.
An exercise to use in meditation:
Shield yourself from negative energy by envisioning your body wrapped in a golden light. Additionally you can come back to this exercise for a moment before entering an environment that may seem difficult. Imagine this golden light protecting your from judgements or negative emotions.
Find downtime and soak it up! (Bonus 2019 Tip!)
The holiday season happens once a year and it’s up to you to make the best of it. Find the small pockets of time where you can check in with yourself and notice if you’re doing what everyone else wants you to do or if you are actually prioritising what makes you and your immediate family the happiest. You need to speak your truth and show up for your own joy! It’s easy to get wrapped up in the hustle and bustle; to feed into the chaos and irritation of busy malls and streets. CHOOSE how you want to feel and make an effort to do the things that allow you to feel that way. Don’t like wrapping presents on your own? Plan a wrapping party with friends. Not into baking but you have company coming? Buy a tray of treats from your favourite bakery. Staying inside makes you feel tired? Go skating or bundle up for a walk! You have more control than you think of your mood and holiday experience.
I believe that no matter the season of life or the month we are in, it’s possible to find a balance of sorts. This comes down to creating healthy habits that work for you and your lifestyle. Not all of these tips may resonate with you but I suggest you pick a few that do and implement them. Happy Holidays!
More About Meagan
Meagan is a graduate of the In Fine Feather Yoga 200 Hour Teacher Training Program and the assistant manager at the studio. Check out her blog post where she shares her IFF Yoga Journey. Come meet Meagan on the mat at In Fine Feather Yoga in Hamilton! Check out her bio HERE and find her on the class schedule HERE.
