7 tips to keep your sanity through the holidays

Late fall and early winter season is characterized by cooler temperatures and shorter days. Typically we begin to slow down, spend more time indoors recharging our batteries. It seems counter-intuitive that we also begin this season with marathon shopping, holiday social gatherings and other demands on our time.  Our lives are speeding up when our bodies want to be slowing down.  This time of year can leave many of us over-stressed, tired and falling short in terms of taking care of ourselves. Self-care is important to keeping your sanity during the holidays.  Below are 7 tips to guide you through a busy season.

1   - drink water  Staying hydrated is key to keeping your energy steady.  Instead of reaching for that extra cup of coffee or that second glass of wine at a party, try a glass of water with a squeeze of lemon or lime. An option I love is half sparkling water with half pure cranberry juice then add a twist of lime served  in a wine glass.  This feels festive without adding extra calories or sugar that can zap your energy.

      - nourish yourself  Plan ahead and stock the fridge with healthy vegetables, fruits, nuts and cheeses.  Plan your day to include “to go” snacks so you are less tempted to reach for sugary options, fast foods or chips that are likely to leave you feeling depleted. Nice options are apples with almond butter, or chopped raw veggies with cheese slices or avocado.

      - stay motivated with exercise  On days that you can’t get to your workout a 20 minute power walk or a short circuit using your body weight 4 times a day will accumulate throughout the day into a 20 to 30 minute workout. For example, 2 sets of forward and back lunges, 20 sit ups, two sets of 10 squats and 10 push-ups or planks held for 1 minute is enough to keep your metabolism in check, curb your hunger and clear your head.

4     - breathe Schedule some time for yourself each day, even 5-10 minutes of deep- breathing to recharge your battery and de-stress.  Plan a luxurious bath with some coconut oil added to the water and a few drops of essential lavender oil.  Download the app GPS for the Soul with guided meditations by a variety of experts.

5   - say no You cannot participate in everything, family and friends will understand. Don’t spend time with people you don’t like! Sometimes this cannot be avoided so breathe deeply and accept people where they are at. 

6     - stick to a budget and don’t budge! Decide how much you can spend and map it out into categories, for instance, groceries, gifts, entertainment, etc.  Plan your meals and make a shopping list and stick to it. Create some new traditions that incorporate homemade gifts. One idea would be a photo gallery of memories from the last year with special moments spent together.

7     - be grateful and give back Volunteer your time with those who are less fortunate.  If you are unable to be near family and friends during the holidays this a perfect way to reach out and be grateful for all that you have.

Don’t forget to smile and enjoy these moments 

that pass by all too quickly!