9 tips to stay fit & stress free during the holidays

Bright lights and tinsel are just around the corner, but the holiday season also comes with a lot of stress. Holiday stress is the type of stress that will raise your stress hormone levels and can be detrimental to your health.

Here are 9 tips to help you step into your power, and keep healthy and fit this season.

1. Be the woman with a plan

A little organization and planning goes a long way. Create a schedule and write lists to help with time management and efficiency.

2. Prioritize & learn to say NO

Your workouts are just as important, if not more important, than shopping and parties. Saying “no” can help you avoid feeling resentful and overwhelmed.

3. Keep moving

Make your fitness accessible. Diversify your workouts or stick to what you know. Go with whatever will keep you on track.

Ideas:

Layer up and go for a run outside. Outdoor workouts may improve your energy levels and help decrease stress.

Engage in shorter and high intensity workouts as they are easier to fit in and can help boost your metabolism.

4. Sleep, drink and be merry

Keep well hydrated and get plenty of sleep. The link between adequate sleep & water on stress reduction is well documented. Limit alcohol consumption to avoid dehydration and consider the “One cocktail, one glass of water” party rule.

5. Self-care

Treat YOURSELF this season.

Ideas:

Do something you love every day

Disconnect and turn your phone off for a few hours

Take a breather and make some alone time to clear your mind

Book a massage or read a book

6. Breathe

Mindful breathing triggers a physical state that changes our response to stress. Make time to attend more yoga classes or engage in breath work & meditation

7. Innovate & Eat Mindfully

Create new traditions and try alternatives to traditional holiday foods. On the table, this can look like a chopped kale salad with toasted pecans and dried cranberries on top.

Be mindful and keep eating your “power foods” daily (lean protein, nuts, fruit and leafy vegetables). Also, bake and enjoy! Making room for pleasure can help reduce stress levels.
 

8. Moderation

Set limits. Get in a creative mindset rather than an “all or nothing” one.

And remember, Christmas is one single day. Indulge for a night, not a season.

9. Affirm and sing it, sister!

Affirmations can help you stay positive. Find an affirmation daily and share it with someone. Get into the holiday cheer with some tunes and laughter. Singing has been shown to strengthen lungs, improve mood, and reduce stress.

Happy Holidays!