Tips to maintain your wellness routine throughout the festive season

However you choose to celebrate, the holiday season is generally a welcome break from work, from the routine and, at times, from the wellness habits that you’ve cultivated over the year.

The festive season, with its array of indulgent delights, parties, events, and celebrating, can sometimes lead to a departure from our usual rhythm of self-care. However, entering the holiday season doesn’t have to signal a pause on health. You can enjoy the festivities while keeping your wellness rituals strong and intact. 

How do you navigate this joyous yet potentially overwhelming period? Read on for our top tips to get you into the holiday spirit while ensuring you stay grounded, healthy, and present all the way through the holiday season. 

1. Embrace Movement: Even amidst the holiday hustle, it's important not to forget about physical activity. Incorporate mindful movement into your holiday routine. This doesn't necessarily mean sticking to your regular movement schedule. Instead, consider fun, group-friendly activities that involve movement. Think ice skating, a family game of football, or a brisk walk around the neighbourhood to view the holiday lights and decorations. Regular physical activity can boost your mood, reduce stress, and offset some of those richer holiday meals.
2. Practise Mindful Eating: This time of year is synonymous with a seemingly endless supply of delicious food and drinks, but that doesn't mean you have to compromise on balanced eating. Savor the flavors of the season, but do so mindfully. Focus on how you’re eating, instead of what you’re eating. Ditch calorie counting or following a strict diet. Listen to your body's cues, stopping when you feel satisfied. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
3. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Amidst the festive cocktails and celebratory bubbles, it's crucial to remember to drink plenty of water to combat dehydration. Follow an 80/20 rule for drinks: 80 refers to your non-caloric drinks (water, tea, coffee) and the 20 to liquid calories (including everything from eggnog, champagne to your late night hot cocoa). Aim to drink at least 2 litres of water a day, and invest in a good reusable water bottle (such as our JSHealth Eco Water Bottle!) and carry this with you everywhere to help you stay on track.
4. Create Healthy Traditions: Sometimes, the best way to maintain your wellness routine is by incorporating it into your holiday traditions. This could look like a holiday morning yoga session, a family hike on the public holidays, or even a nourishing holiday baking competition. Creating these traditions can make maintaining your wellness routine fun and something the whole family can look forward to.
5. Illuminate Your Space: Candles can do more than just create a cozy ambiance or fill your home with the aroma of baked goods, even if you haven't had time to bake this year. The act of lighting a candle can be a powerful practice of manifestation. It encourages mindfulness, symbolises fresh starts, and keeps you anchored in the present moment. Each time you light a candle, use it as an opportunity to recite a silent affirmation or prayer, or simply let it serve as a reminder to embrace joy. Opt for scents that evoke the holiday season—like a crackling fire, a forest of pine trees, or the meditative scent of frankincense—to further enhance the festive atmosphere and the sense of calm during this busy season.
6. Quality Sleep: With all the celebration and excitement, sleep may be the last thing on your mind during the festive season. However, it's important to prioritize getting enough rest for both physical and mental wellbeing. Lack of sleep can lead to increased stress levels, irritability, and a weakened immune system*. Aim for at least 7-9 hours of sleep each night and try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule, even during the holidays. This will help you feel well-rested and energised throughout the day.
7. Managing Stress: The holiday season can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Practice mindful techniques such as meditation with some calming crystals or through the guided meditations available in the JSHealth App. Deep breathing alongside essential oils such as chamomile or bergamot, soaking in a warm bubble bath (laden with Epsom salts and lavender!), journaling, and yoga can also help manage stress levels. Remember, it’s okay to say no to activities if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Prioritize self-care and ensure you’re taking the time to relax and recharge.

References: 

*Orzeł-Gryglewska, J. (2010). Consequences of sleep deprivation. International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 23(1), pp.95–114. doi:https://doi.org/10.2478/v10001-010-0004-9.