Holiday Health Hacks: Navigating the Season with Ease and Joy
The holiday season, a time of merriment and togetherness, often brings along a whirlwind of activities, social engagements, and family gatherings. While these moments create cherished memories, they can also lead to stress, fatigue, and disruptions to your regular routines. To help you navigate the holiday season with ease and maintain your well-being, here are some practical hacks that Melissa Bernstein, a seasoned wife, mother and healthy lifestyle advocate and I, as a seasoned geriatrician with over four decades of experience, want to share with our readers.
Dr. B’s Hacks
- SOCIALIZATION AND COMMUNICATION
Set Expectations: Before family or friends arrive, have an open conversation about expectations, preferences, and boundaries. This helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures everyone feels comfortable. - SWEETS AND HEALTH
Strike a Balance: Enjoy the culinary delights of the season without overindulging. Keep healthy snacks readily available and practice moderation when indulging in treats. - SWEAT AND STAY ACTIVE
Maintain Your Exercise Routine: Prioritize physical activity even during the busy holiday season. Go for walks, engage in group fitness classes, or invite family members to join your exercise routine. - SLEEP AND REST
Aim for 7-8 Hours of Sleep: Sufficient sleep is crucial for both physical and mental health. Encourage younger children to stick to their sleep schedules to minimize disruptions. - STRESS MANAGEMENT
Don’t Neglect Your Stress-Reduction Practices: Despite the holiday hustle, continue your stress-management techniques, such as yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature.
Melissa’s Hacks
- PLAN AHEAD
Create a Detailed Schedule: Before the holidays, create a comprehensive schedule that includes activities, meal plans, nap times, and other relevant details for everyone involved. - AGE-APPROPRIATE ACTIVITIES
Plan Engaging Activities: Cater to different age groups with fun and engaging activities, such as visits to the zoo, park outings, exercise sessions, or arts and crafts projects. - HEALTHY SNACKS FOR ALL
Make Healthy Snacks Accessible: Apples & nut butter, fresh fruit & berries, veggies with hummus, fruit frozen pops, pretzels, and raw nuts are great options. Ensure healthy snacks are readily available throughout the day for everyone to enjoy. - STICK TO SLEEP ROUTINES
Maintain Consistent Sleep Schedules: Help everyone maintain their regular sleep schedules to minimize disruptions and ensure adequate rest. - RELAXATION TECHNIQUES
Encourage Relaxation Practices: Promote stress-reduction techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to combat stress and maintain a calm mindset.
Remember, the key to a stress-free holiday season lies in planning, effective communication, and prioritizing your well-being.
Melissa reminds us “to be in the moment and enjoy the time. Take deep breaths if needed if a situation arises to keep calm and cool. Family time is special, and you can only plan so much. Don’t over plan as schedules will fluctuate. Be flexible and go with the flow.”
By incorporating these hacks into your holiday routine, you can navigate the season with ease, maintain your health, and enjoy the precious moments with your loved ones.
